The National Bureau of Investigation is nearing completion of its investigation into the ₱55-million cauldron constructed for the 2019 Southeast Asian Games at New Clark City in Tarlac.

NBI Director Melvin Matibag said investigators are finishing the final stage of the probe and could move toward filing complaints within days.

Possible charges still being evaluated

According to Matibag, investigators are examining possible plunder and violations of Republic Act No. 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.

Five board members were reportedly being considered in connection with possible complaints, although the NBI stressed that the final number of respondents and exact charges could still change depending on additional testimony and evidence.

The NBI interviewed two witnesses as part of the final phase of its investigation.

Cauldron examined as separate transaction

Matibag said investigators divided the wider SEA Games investigation into individual transactions, with the cauldron being addressed first because that portion of the investigation had reached a more advanced stage.

The cauldron became one of the most controversial expenditures associated with the Philippines' hosting of the 2019 Southeast Asian Games. The NBI formally launched its broader investigation into alleged irregularities in SEA Games infrastructure projects in July 2026.

As of the latest report, no final complaint or criminal charge arising from this particular investigation had yet been filed. Any person eventually named in a complaint is entitled to due process and the presumption of innocence.