WPS Issue Overshadowing Flood Control ‘Ghost Projects’ In DPWH?

Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano

WPS Issue Overshadowing Flood Control ‘Ghost Projects’ In DPWH?

By Bing Jabadan – TheNATIONWEEK.com | February 13, 2026

MANILA, Philippines – A recent Senate hearing addressing escalating tensions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) has ignited controversy, raising concerns that a national security crisis might overshadow systemic corruption allegations related to flood control “ghost projects” within the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

The controversy stems from remarks by Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano, who cautioned against escalating rhetoric on the WPS issue as Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) officials condemned China’s actions in the disputed waters.

While PCG spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela delivered testimony detailing China’s aggressive behavior in the WPS, Cayetano urged restraint, saying that “inflammatory language” could be misconstrued by Beijing and exacerbate the already fragile situation.

“The real problem isn’t the ships; it’s the mouth,” Cayetano said, implying that Tarriela’s public pronouncements were counterproductive.

The senator defended his position as prioritizing the safety and well-being of Filipinos, pushing for a pragmatic approach to de-escalate tensions through diplomatic channels rather than armed conflict.

“Cayetano’s stance is to protect the interests of thousands of overseas Filipino workers in China rather than put them in the quagmire of war,” said an OFW who asked not to be identified.

The senator’s cautious approach has drawn sharp criticism, with some accusing him of appeasing China and downplaying the severity of its actions in the WPS.

Observers are questioning whether the national focus on the territorial dispute is diverting attention from ongoing investigations into alleged corruption within the DPWH.

They claim that the heightened tensions with China provide a convenient smokescreen, shielding those implicated in the alleged corruption in the DPWH from public scrutiny and accountability.

The debate on the WPS has been further fueled by recent incidents, such as the injury of Filipino fishermen caused by a Chinese water cannon.

Cayetano’s reaction to the incident suggested it might be an overreaction, intensifying scrutiny of the government’s overall approach to the WPS dispute.

“Is this a genuine concern for national security, or a carefully orchestrated distraction?” asked an OFW.

“The timing of these events, coupled with the scale of the alleged corruption within the DPWH, raises serious questions about the motivations behind the government’s rhetoric and actions.”

Calls are mounting for a transparent investigation into both the territorial dispute in the WPS and the alleged corruption within the DPWH, demanding that the government address both issues with equal urgency and commitment.