Malabon LGU files complaint over alleged permit violations in DPWH project
By Hannah Nicol
Malabon City Government seal (File photo)
The Malabon City government said on Tuesday, Dec. 16, that it has filed a criminal complaint over the alleged lack of permits in the demolition and construction of a building on city-owned property in Barangay Catmon.
According to the city’s Public Information Office, the complaint was filed on Nov. 13 before the Office of the City Prosecutor against Alpha Omega General Contractor & Development Corporation and former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Malabon–Navotas District Engineer Aristotle Ramos.
The city government said the case involves a barangay multi-purpose building constructed on a lot owned by the Malabon local government along Sanciangco Street.
The City Engineering Department reported that the respondents allegedly proceeded with demolition and construction works without securing the required demolition and building permits from the city government.
The local government said this violates Section 301 of Presidential Decree No. 1096, or the National Building Code of the Philippines, which requires permits before any construction or demolition activities can begin.
It added that local government approval is required even for projects implemented by national government agencies and their contractors.
The local government also filed a separate complaint for the alleged violation of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, citing actions that may have caused harm to the city government.
According to the complaint, the project proceeded without prior coordination or consultation with the city, even though the local government unit owned the property.
“The injury suffered by the City Government of Malabon is direct and substantial,” the complaint states.
This prevented authorities from ensuring compliance with safety standards, zoning regulations, and approved development plans, it added.
The Malabon City government said it remains firm in enforcing local regulations and protecting public property, regardless of the parties involved.