Dead dike project in Bulacan revived amid irregularities, says DPWH Secretary Dizon
RUSHED BACK TO LIFE — Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon inspects the so-called “ghost” flood control project in Barangay Sipat, Plaridel, Bulacan, which was declared finished in 2024 but only saw rushed construction starting in July 2025. (Freddie Velez)
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon described the dike project in Barangay Sipat, Plaridel, Bulacan, as a “dead project being forced back to life” after discovering major irregularities during an on-site inspection on Thursday, Sept. 4.
The dike, located along the Angat River near the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) Bridge, was declared completed in 2024. However, Dizon revealed that no substantial work had been done at the site.
"Dineklara nila itong tapos kahit wala naman palang nagagawa (They declared it finished even though nothing was done)," Dizon said.
According to the secretary, the contractor only began rushing work in July 2025, following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s intensified campaign against failed and unfulfilled flood control projects.
Dizon pledged full accountability, announcing that a formal case will be filed against DPWH personnel involved in the alleged irregularities before the Office of the Ombudsman.
He added that the contractor and its associated firms will be permanently blacklisted from future DPWH projects.