Dizon taps Lara Esquibil to replace DPWH undersecretary questioned by Leviste
By Trixee Rosel
At A Glance
- Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon, on Monday, Oct. 20, designated Lara Marisse Inguito-Esquibil as Officer-in-Charge Undersecretary for Convergence Projects and Technical Services.
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon (Photo: DPWH)
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon, on Monday, Oct. 20, designated Lara Marisse Inguito-Esquibil as Officer-in-Charge Undersecretary for Convergence Projects and Technical Services.
Esquibil, 36, succeeds former undersecretary Arrey Perez, who voluntarily stepped down over the allegation raised by Batangas 1st District Rep. Leandro Leviste linking him to questionable dealings with contractors.
Dizon emphasized that the department remains committed to transparency and accountability, with ongoing investigations into public works contracts continuing regardless of leadership changes.
He stressed that leadership transitions will not affect the integrity of ongoing inquiries, highlighting the department’s focus on evidence-based assessments and fairness.
“Kinonfront po natin agad si Undersecretary Perez, at sinabi naman po niya, wala pong problema sa pag-iimbestiga sa kanya (We immediately confronted Undersecretary Perez, and he said he has no problem with being investigated),” Dizon said.
Perez then voluntarily submitted his irrevocable resignation to avoid becoming a distraction to the department’s operations.
Assuming leadership at a critical juncture, Esquibil now oversees convergence projects and technical services.
She is tasked with steering the DPWH toward strengthened internal systems and reinforcing integrity amid heightened public and legislative scrutiny.