Manila Representative Benny Abante has called on Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte to take a closer look at the city’s flood control projects, as heavy flooding continues to affect parts of Davao.
Abante, who also chairs the House committee on human rights, made the remark after Mayor Duterte dismissed the government’s crackdown on flood control projects as nothing more than a publicity stunt.
“I suggest that the Mayor ask his brother, Congressman Pulong Duterte, how much Davao City got for flood control during the time of their father, former President Rodrigo Duterte,” Abante said during a press conference.
He added that the public deserves full transparency.
“Reveal the amount, where it was used, how it was spent, and why—despite billions poured into flood control—Davao is still suffering from floods,” Abante stressed.
But Congressman Pulong Duterte quickly defended his district.
In a firm statement, he said every project under his watch had been completed and properly implemented.
“All projects allocated to my district are properly implemented and completed. If Congressman Abante really wants to see the numbers, I’ve directed the DPWH District and Regional Offices to provide the official data and amounts,” Pulong declared.
He further insisted that no peso was wasted.
“Every peso allocated was put into action. There are no ghost projects here, and no flood control structures collapsing in Davao,” he said.
Pulong also downplayed the flooding issue in the city, saying it was not as severe compared to other parts of the country.
“Yes, sometimes we get floods here, but the water subsides quickly. It’s not like the swimming pools you have in your area,” he quipped.
In a sharp retort, the congressman also challenged Abante to reflect on his own standing in Congress.
“Instead of questioning the projects that benefit the people of Davao, maybe you should start answering for your own questionable position,” he added.
