Yap still under probe over P179.5M La Union flood projects

MANILA, Philippines — Benguet Lone District Representative Eric Yap remains under preliminary investigation by the Office of the Ombudsman over alleged irregularities involving two flood control projects in La Union worth a combined P179.5 million.

The two projects, each valued at P89.7 million, were awarded to Silverwolves Construction Corp., a company that the Ombudsman has linked to Yap as an alleged beneficial owner.

The projects reportedly involved flood control works that were fully paid but found to be unfinished, prompting the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to file graft and malversation complaints against several individuals connected to the projects.

Ombudsman officials have identified Yap as a person of interest in the case, citing possible conflict-of-interest concerns and alleged violations of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.

Yap has reportedly maintained that he had already divested from Silverwolves, although Ombudsman officials have said they believe he remains a beneficial owner of the firm.

Yap brothers barred from leaving country

While the preliminary investigation continues, the Sandiganbayan has issued a precautionary hold-departure order (PHDO) against Eric Yap and his brother, former ACT-CIS party-list Representative Edvic Yap.

The order was issued by the Sandiganbayan Second Division following a request from the Office of the Special Prosecutor, which said the measure was necessary to ensure that the brothers, considered flight risks, remain within the country's jurisdiction while the preliminary investigation is ongoing.

A PHDO is a precautionary measure used during the preliminary investigation stage. It is intended to prevent respondents from leaving the country while authorities determine whether criminal charges should proceed.

The case against the Yap brothers stems from complaints filed by the DPWH and the Independent Commission for Infrastructure in October 2025 over alleged irregularities in flood control projects.

Edvic Yap has since resigned from the House of Representatives amid the controversy. He was also identified by the Ombudsman as one of the lawmakers being investigated in connection with the La Union projects.

Other lawmakers also under scrutiny

The Yap brothers are among several lawmakers and former lawmakers who have been linked to separate complaints arising from the broader flood control controversy.

Reports have also identified former Pampanga 3rd District Representative Aurelio “Dong” Gonzalez Jr., Tarlac 2nd District Representative Cristy Coelho Angeles, former Surigao del Sur 2nd District Representative and now Gov. Johnny Pimentel, and CWS Party-list Representative Edwin Gardiola in separate conflict-of-interest complaints.

Senators Chiz Escudero and Joel Villanueva have likewise been mentioned in complaints related to the flood control controversy.

The investigations, however, remain ongoing, and the filing of complaints or identification as a person of interest does not by itself establish criminal liability.

For Yap, the Ombudsman probe remains at the preliminary investigation stage as authorities continue to examine the alleged links between lawmakers, contractors and government flood control projects.