DOJ Launches Probe Into Senator Mark Villar, Family Over ₱18.5-Billion Las Piñas Infrastructure Projects

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has launched an investigation into Senator Mark Villar and several members of his family over their alleged involvement in multimillion-peso infrastructure projects in Las Piñas City.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla revealed that the probe was prompted by findings indicating a possible “prohibited interest,” after it was discovered that some of Villar’s own relatives had served as contractors for several public works projects in the city.

The projects in question amount to roughly ₱18.5 billion and include the construction of school buildings, road development, asphalt overlays, and various flood-control structures such as revetments. Authorities are scrutinizing whether there were any conflicts of interest or violations of laws prohibiting public officials and their close relatives from benefiting financially from government contracts.

Remulla stated that the DOJ will obtain official documents and records related to these projects to determine whether irregularities took place. The investigation also extends to the period when Mark Villar served as Secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) under the Duterte administration.

In addition, the DOJ is looking into the possible involvement of other members of the Villar family, including former Senator Cynthia Villar and Senator Camille Villar, who previously represented Las Piñas in Congress.

The findings of the investigation are expected to clarify whether government procurement rules and ethical standards were breached, particularly in relation to conflict-of-interest laws that apply to public officials and their immediate families.