Former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Rogelio Singson rejected Malacañang’s offer to return to the Cabinet and instead expressed willingness to lead an independent investigation into alleged multibillion-peso irregularities in the agency’s flood control projects.

Singson confirmed receiving “informal feelers” from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s circle as DPWH faces scrutiny over alleged “ghost” and substandard anti-flood works.

He cited findings that part of the P545-billion flood control program was cornered by only 15 contractors.

He noted that while he and Marcos had discussed the administration’s Integrated Water Resources Management Program, a Cabinet return “is not on the table.”

Singson stressed he is willing to take on the task “pro bono,” adding that his push for an independent probe has gained support from the Management Association of the Philippines and private sector leaders.

These groups believe it is time to put an end to questionable practices in the agency’s flood control projects.

Palace officials said DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan retains the President’s trust despite Senate inquiries and Marcos’ on-site inspections flagging irregularities in several flood control projects.

Bonoan said he would leave it to the Chief Executive to decide whether he should take a leave while the probe is ongoing.

Singson, who served as DPWH chief from 2010 to 2016 under the late President Benigno Aquino III, recalled that a comprehensive flood control master plan was completed during his tenure but was not adopted by succeeding administrations.

This failure left many communities vulnerable to perennial flooding.

After leaving government, he returned to the private sector, holding senior executive positions while continuing involvement in infrastructure and water resource initiatives.