At the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee on Monday, Wawao Builders owner Mark Allan Arevalo repeatedly invoked his right against self-incrimination when pressed by senators about alleged ghost flood control projects.

The hearing stemmed from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s earlier revelation that 15 contractors supposedly cornered 20 percent of the ₱545-billion flood control budget, including Arevalo’s firm.

Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva asked whether Wawao Builders was involved in ghost projects. Arevalo refused to answer, citing legal advice. His response angered Villanueva, who said, “Parang tinatanong ka kung tao ka, hindi mo alam kung tao ka.”

Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada noted reports of ghost projects in Bulacan, particularly in Malolos, Calumpit, and Hagonoy, allegedly linked to Arevalo’s company. When pressed, Arevalo admitted Wawao Builders was established in 2017 with ₱9 million capital and began handling government projects in 2019. He cited projects in San Juan, Quezon City, and Quezon province, but avoided mentioning Bulacan.

Estrada countered that most of the firm’s contracts were in Bulacan and questioned Arevalo’s silence. The contractor insisted that speaking could be used against him, prompting senators to raise suspicions further.

Former Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan confirmed that the agency is still validating reports but admitted there could be ₱5.9 billion worth of ghost projects in Bulacan.

The investigation remains ongoing as lawmakers pursue accountability in what could be one of the country’s largest infrastructure anomalies..