Cayetano Defends Taguig Lakeshore Project Amid Lacson's Allegations of Wasted Funds

TAGUIG CITY, Philippines — A heated exchange continues between Senators Alan Peter Cayetano and Panfilo "Ping" Lacson over the Taguig Lakeshore project, with Lacson alleging that over P3.713 billion in public funds has been wasted on flood control and infrastructure. Cayetano, however, has strongly refuted these claims, challenging Lacson to present evidence. In a Facebook post, Cayetano stated, "Under Taguig's management, Lakeshore was not wasted or is being wasted." He highlighted the area's transformation into a hub for events, health, education, leisure, and business, emphasizing its importance to the many people who rely on Laguna Lake. "May this be a model for other lakes and developments in different LGUs—that with proper stewardship, purpose, and vision, we can transform these blessings into opportunities that benefit our people," he added. Cayetano suggested that Lacson's allegations were politically motivated and lacked substantiation. "If there is evidence against DPWH, Taguig, or against me, then present it. Stop the theatrics and let the evidence do the talking," he urged. He further commented, "Every hour the government spends on political warfare instead of solving problems is wasted. Every peso spent on projects that do not serve the people is wasted." Meanwhile, Lacson's office announced that their latest findings on the alleged anomalous projects have been submitted to the Ombudsman's fact-finding team. In an X post, Lacson stated, "Based on official records and our investigation, the total cost of identified completed, ongoing (and suspended) DPWH flood control and multi-purpose projects along the ‘illegal’ Laguna Lakeshore reclamation areas in Taguig City has so far reached P3.713 billion." He also pointed to questionable slope protection and flood mitigation projects along the Taguig River, citing double appropriations and "ghost" projects using recycled photographs for billing purposes. Responding to Cayetano's challenge for evidence, Lacson briefly said, "The evidence have already been submitted to the Ombudsman. He'll just have to wait." The dispute underscores the ongoing friction between the two senators regarding reclamation projects on Laguna Lake in Taguig City. The issue brings to the forefront persistent questions about transparency and efficiency in public spending in the Philippines. Information Source: GMA News Philippines