As the project progressed, construction delays and cost overruns began to plague Muntinlupa Bliss. The initial budget of PHP 1.2 billion (approximately USD 24 million) ballooned to over PHP 5 billion (approximately USD 100 million), with some estimates suggesting that the final cost may have exceeded PHP 10 billion (approximately USD 200 million).

The delays and cost overruns led to a perfect storm of problems. Many families who had invested their life savings in Muntinlupa Bliss found themselves unable to move into their homes, as the construction schedule fell further and further behind. Others discovered that their units were incomplete, poorly built, or even nonexistent.

In the next installment of this series, we will continue to explore the Muntinlupa Bliss scandal, delving deeper into the complex web of interests, alliances, and rivalries that contributed to the project's downfall. We will also examine the efforts of affected families and advocacy groups to seek justice and bring about reforms.

One of the earliest concerns was the lack of transparency in the project's bidding process. Several companies were allegedly favored in the allocation of contracts, leading to accusations of cronyism and corruption. Additionally, there were reports of irregularities in the land acquisition process, with some lots allegedly sold to multiple buyers or purchased at inflated prices.