The local government of Lupao, Nueva Ecija asked national authorities to investigate three public works projects worth nearly ₱190 million that officials say do not exist on the ground.

According to the LGU, its inspection teams did not find any trace of the listed projects, which include an almost ₱85-million farm-to-market road in Barangay San Pedro, a ₱76.49-million flood control sheetpiling project in Barangay San Antonio Este, and more than ₱28 million worth of school buildings in Barangay Agupalo Weste.

All three projects fall under a single contractor, Topmost Construction, which is registered in Pulilan, Bulacan. The company has yet to issue a statement.

The LGU said it already submitted its documents to the DPWH Central Office and hopes the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) will launch a full investigation.

Local officials said they raised the issue to protect public funds and ensure that all government projects are properly implemented.