The Ombudsman has started a fact-finding mission into ghost internet projects, while the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) promised full transparency and cooperation.
Ghost internet projects refer to government ICT contracts paid for but never delivered. The probe targets billions of these contracts. Reports say contractors delivered hardware but installed outdated or fake software, which led to overpriced systems that failed to serve Filipinos.
Investigators will look into whether sites were installed and working, if the government was billed for services not delivered, if prices were inflated, and who signed off on payments. Graft complaints are also pending against members of the Villar family linked to PrimeWater, adding more weight to the case.
DICT responded, stressing accountability. The agency said it will provide records, technical data, and support to investigators. It added that ICT projects must deliver real benefits to citizens and that any misuse or non-performing systems must be addressed under the law.
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Government ICT spending is now under closer watch. With DICT cooperating, investigators will get the data they need, and updates on the ghost internet case will follow soon.
