Mikaila Abrinica
BOGO CITY, Cebu (October 1, 2025) – A portion of the Bogo City Hall has become the center of controversy after a viral photo revealed a cracked section of the building’s foundation exposing unused cement bags stacked inside the structure. The damage was sustained following the 6.9 magnitude earthquake that jolted Cebu on September 30.
The image, now widely circulated on social media, shows several sacks of cement embedded within a concrete wall—an apparent shortcut in construction that has alarmed both residents and engineers.
“Government buildings are supposed to be constructed with the highest safety standards. Seeing cement bags used as filler instead of proper reinforcement is a serious red flag,” one Cebu-based civil engineer said.
Public Outrage
Netizens were quick to link the incident to broader concerns about corruption in infrastructure projects. Many pointed to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), which has been under scrutiny for alleged misuse of billions in flood control funds that, according to critics, end up in the pockets of politicians rather than on actual projects.
“The quake only revealed what we already know—our infrastructure is built on weak foundations because funds are stolen,” one resident posted online.
DPWH and Budget Misuse
The DPWH has faced repeated criticism over the years for questionable project allocations, with the Commission on Audit (COA) flagging numerous irregularities. Flood control projects, in particular, have been cited as “budget catch-alls,” where funding is easily diverted.
Local officials in Bogo have yet to issue a detailed statement on whether the City Hall building was constructed under DPWH supervision or through local government contracting. Calls are mounting for an independent probe to determine if substandard materials and methods were used in the building’s construction.
Safety Concerns
While earthquakes can damage even well-built structures, experts stress that government buildings are expected to withstand stronger tremors compared to private residences. “If shortcuts like these are being used, then it puts not only employees but also residents seeking public services at risk during disasters,” the engineer added.
Wider Implications
Advocates say the Bogo City Hall damage is a wake-up call for a full audit of public buildings across Cebu and the wider region. The incident underscores how corruption and negligence can directly translate into safety hazards.
“Disasters expose weaknesses not just in our buildings but in our governance,” one activist group said in a statement. “When funds are pocketed, walls crack, and lives are put in danger.”
Next Steps
As of press time, no injuries were reported in the Bogo City Hall incident, but the viral image continues to stir debate nationwide. Citizens and watchdog groups are urging the DPWH and local officials to launch a transparent investigation and hold accountable those responsible for any construction malpractice.
For now, residents remain wary that the very buildings meant to serve and protect them could be hiding shaky foundations.