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Manila Bulletin devider Business devider Trade & Industry devider Business leaders hopeful Dizon can restore integrity at DPWH

Business leaders hopeful Dizon can restore integrity at DPWH

Published Sep 1, 2025 03:24 pm
Newly appointed DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon addresses the media during a Palace briefing on Monday, Sept. 1, 2025, outlining his plan to order the courtesy resignations of ranking officials nationwide as part of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s drive to “clean house” at the agency. (PCO)
Newly appointed DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon addresses the media during a Palace briefing on Monday, Sept. 1, 2025, outlining his plan to order the courtesy resignations of ranking officials nationwide as part of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s drive to “clean house” at the agency. (PCO)
Prominent business groups welcomed the appointment of Secretary Vince Dizon as the new head of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), saying that he could breathe new life into an agency embroiled in allegations of anomalies in flood control projects.
In separate statements, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) and the Federation of Philippine Industries (FPI) expressed support for Dizon in his incoming leadership of the DPWH.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Sunday, Sept. 1, accepted the resignation of former secretary Manuel Bonoan, appointing Dizon, who headed the Department of Transportation (DOTr), as the replacement.
According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), Dizon has been tasked to conduct a “full organizational sweep” of the DPWH.
He was given the mandate to ensure that public funds are “used solely for infrastructure that truly protects and benefits the Filipino people” amid ongoing corruption allegations in the department.
PCCI, the country’s largest business organization, said it was a “surprise” to see Bonoan step down, given his “steadfast leadership in steering the country's critical infrastructure portfolio.“
“At the same time, we welcome the appointment of erstwhile Transportation Secretary and former BCDA (Bases Conversion and Development Authority) head Vince Dizon to this vital position,” said PCCI.
The industry group said Dizon has a “solid track record,” given his experience in leading the "Build, Build, Build" program under the previous administration.
With his brief stint as the DOTr chief, PCCI stated that the official showed his capability to deliver excellent service and restore public confidence.
The group expects Dizon to maintain his “strong inclination” toward transparency and public-private partnership arrangements, which he displayed in BCDA and DOTr.
“His leadership could signal a fresh chapter for DPWH—one anchored on accountability, efficiency, and continuity of infrastructure development,” said PCCI.
FPI, in a statement penned by its chairman, Elizabeth Lee, said Dizon is ideal for the DPWH given his “results-driven leadership style that prioritizes action over rhetoric.”
“This is precisely the kind of governance needed to restore integrity and accountability in DPWH, especially in light of recent anomalies in flood control projects,” stated FPI.
With the ongoing investigation into controversies surrounding flood control infrastructure, the umbrella organization representing local manufacturers and producers said it is optimistic that Dizon will push for higher-quality infrastructure.
“We look forward to working with Secretary Dizon in advancing higher technical standards, transparent procurement systems, and a public infrastructure program that is resilient, inclusive, and built on trust,” the industry group said.
“The way forward must include independent monitoring, digital traceability, and full public disclosure of project specifications and supplier compliance—so that every structure built reflects not just progress, but integrity,” it added.
FPI noted that locally produced inputs, such as steel and cement, are available and manufactured in compliance with the Philippine National Standards (PNS).
The group stated that the government and its partner contractors should prioritize these products to support the local industry, ensure quality, and maximize economic impact.
“Smuggled or poorly regulated inputs distort the market, reward bad actors, and leave communities exposed to risk,” it explained.
Following Dizon’s exit from the DOTr, Marcos appointed Undersecretary for Administration, Finance, and Procurement Giovanni Lopez as the Acting Secretary.
According to the PCO, Lopez will ensure continuity and build upon the programs initiated by Dizon.

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Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Vince Dizon
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