Allegations of Plunder and Corruption: Trillanes' Complaint Against Duterte, Go, and Associates
Former senator Antonio Trillanes IV has recently lodged a plunder complaint against former president Rodrigo Duterte, Senator Bong Go, and Go's family members regarding government infrastructure contracts worth P7 billion awarded to Go's family-owned companies. Trillanes also filed a complaint for alleged violation of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act against the mentioned individuals. The complaint was based on a 2018 report by the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ) that highlighted the significant number and value of projects awarded to CLTG Builders and Alfrego Builders in the Davao region during Duterte's tenure as mayor and president. Go, who previously served as Duterte's special assistant, was accused of leveraging his positions to secure lucrative government projects for his family's firms, enriching himself and his relatives in the process.
Trillanes' complaints were initially filed in July 2024 with the Department of Justice (DOJ) and later endorsed to the Office of the Ombudsman. However, the complaints were dismissed by then-Ombudsman Samuel Martires in June 2025. The allegations against Duterte, Go, and their associates included violations of anti-graft laws and potential plunder due to the substantial amount involved in the infrastructure projects. The complaint also highlighted the questionable joint venture between CLTG Builders and St. Gerrard Construction, a company linked to the Discaya family, which raised concerns about the bidding process and qualifications of the involved firms. The Discayas, known for their controversial construction projects and tax liabilities, faced scrutiny for their involvement in securing government contracts.
Trillanes' actions shed light on the alleged irregularities in the awarding of government contracts to favored companies associated with influential individuals. The accusations of corruption and misuse of public office for personal gain underscore the importance of transparency and accountability in government procurement processes. The dismissal of the complaints by the Ombudsman raises questions about the effectiveness of anti-corruption measures and the need for thorough investigations into allegations of graft and plunder. As the case unfolds, it remains to be seen whether further legal actions will be taken to address the issues raised by Trillanes and ensure accountability for those involved in the alleged misconduct.