MANILA — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is preparing to file cases over alleged irregularities involving the “golden cauldron” used during the 2019 Southeast Asian Games.

NBI Director Melvin Matibag said the bureau has gathered documents and testimonies that may support criminal charges, with cases expected to be filed within days.

The cauldron reportedly cost P55 million, while investigators are looking into claims that its actual cost may have been significantly lower.

The probe is part of a broader NBI investigation into the Philippine Southeast Asian Games Organizing Committee (PHISGOC), which organized the 2019 SEA Games.

Matibag said several sports officials and individuals linked to PHISGOC are also under investigation, including people associated with then-PHISGOC chairman Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano.

Sports executive Ramon Suzara is also among those being looked into.

The NBI is further examining why PHISGOC continued sponsoring international events despite having been created specifically for the 2019 SEA Games.

Matibag said the investigation remains ongoing and separate cases may be filed based on the evidence gathered.

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