Surigao del Sur Lawmaker Accused of Plunder in Infrastructure Project Scandal

Surigao del Sur Rep. Romeo Momo Sr.

Surigao del Sur Lawmaker Accused of Plunder in Infrastructure Project Scandal

By Wilma N. Yamzon – TheNATIONWEEK.Com | December 12, 2025

MANILA, Philippines – Corruption allegations have mounted against Surigao del Sur Rep. Romeo Momo Sr. as a coalition of priests and lawyers filed a formal plunder complaint with the Ombudsman, alleging he illicitly benefited from over ₱1.4 billion in infrastructure projects.

The accusation centers on a purported conflict of interest, claiming Momo’s family reaped financial rewards through a corporation with which he was previously affiliated.

The complaint, filed Friday, implicates Momo, officials from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and representatives from the Commission on Audit, accusing them of violating the Plunder Law, the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, and the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials.

The coalition demands a comprehensive and impartial investigation into all DPWH officials, local government personnel, bids and awards committee members, and COA representatives involved in the alleged corruption.

At the core of the accusations are contracts awarded to Surigao La Suerte Corporation.

SEC records, according to the complaint, reveal that Momo’s family members occupy key corporate positions, with the congressman himself having previously served as a director in the corporation.

Complainants argue the connection represents a blatant conflict of interest, allowing the lawmaker to enrich himself and his family through his influential roles as chairman of the House committee on public works and highways and as a member of the bicameral conference committee for the 2026 national budget.

“This is a clear case of self-dealing,” stated a spokesperson for the coalition, speaking on condition of anonymity.

“The congressman used his position to steer public funds to a company controlled by his own family, effectively turning infrastructure projects into a personal piggy bank,” he claimed.

The complaint raises profound questions about the integrity of infrastructure project allocation and oversight in Surigao del Sur.

If substantiated, the allegations could expose a sophisticated network of corruption and self-enrichment, further undermining public confidence in government institutions.

The Ombudsman now faces the critical task of investigating these claims and determining whether criminal charges are justified.

This case highlights the pressing need for enhanced transparency and accountability in government contracting to prevent the abuse of power and the misappropriation of public funds.

The outcome of the investigation could have significant implications for the fight against corruption in the Philippines and serve as a crucial test of the country’s commitment to good governance.