Unearthed Secret: Phantom undertakings in flood control infrastructure development

In a recent statement made on Friday, August 29, 2025, Cesar "Didoy" Suan, President of the LMP Cebu and the Mayor of Cordova, announced that the chapter has begun discussions regarding a lifestyle check for government officials. This move comes in support of a measure initiated by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

Suan, along with 11 other mayors in the province, has expressed their willingness to support this initiative. The mayors have agreed to monitor the projects of the Department of Public Works and Highways in their respective areas, aiming for transparency and accountability in the implementation of projects.

The Cebu City Mayor has also announced support for a lifestyle check for official government employees, as demanded by the League of Municipalities of the Philippines Cebu Chapter. This support echoes the sentiments of Vice Mayors Jerome Escalona of Tabogon and Joyjoy Alegado of Consolacion, who filed an appeal for a lifestyle check on Friday, August 28.

Despite challenges posed by the heavy rain season, which has caused problems in the implementation of projects, Suan mentioned that the collaboration among cities in the Province of Cebu has minimized disputes. The provincial league has expressed its support for Governor Pamela Baricuatro's administration, and the mayors are all welcoming the idea of a lifestyle check.

Governor Baricuatro has expressed support for the projects of the mayors and the LMP, further strengthening the alliance between the provincial government and the municipalities. The number of mayors supporting the lifestyle check is more than 11, indicating a widespread call for transparency and accountability in government.

The League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP)-Cebu Chapter has also stated that there are no "ghost projects" in the flood-control works of Cebu Province. This declaration reaffirms the commitment of the local government units to deliver effective and efficient services to their constituents.

As the discussions continue, it is expected that the first statement of support for the lifestyle check will be issued soon, marking a significant step towards a more transparent and accountable government in the Province of Cebu.