DPWH to pursue more cases vs officials over anomalous flood control projects
By Trixee Rosel
At A Glance
- DPWH to continue filing cases against officials linked to questionable flood control projects.
- Over 40 individuals, including at least 20 officials, have been charged with graft and corruption.
- Office of the Ombudsman will announce names and details of the cases.
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon (DPWH photo)
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has tightened the noose on its own ranks as the agency confirmed it will continue filing cases against officials and personnel linked to anomalous flood control projects across the country.
DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon stated that the cases will be referred to the Office of the Ombudsman to hold erring personnel accountable following a series of internal investigations aimed at purging the department of corrupt practices.
He emphasized the department’s commitment to transparency and accountability in all ongoing investigations.
Over 40 individuals, including at least 20 DPWH officials and personnel, have already been slapped with graft and corruption charges for their alleged involvement in questionable flood control projects.
Dizon added that the Office of the Ombudsman will announce the names of the individuals and the specific charges filed.
Maharlika Highway
Meanwhile, Dizon assured the public that ongoing works along the Maharlika Highway are temporary measures to ensure smooth travel during the Holy Week.
Maharlika Highway serves as a vital artery spanning Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao and the DPWH said current works primarily involve road reblocking but only a few segments of these repairs remain unfinished.
“What we are doing now along Maharlika Highway is just a short-term solution as we want travelers to have smooth journeys this Holy Week,” Dizon said.
Once the holiday rush subsides, the DPWH plans to shift toward permanent fixes, Dizon said.
Further, Dizon noted that the DPWH will also start the procurement and bidding for more extensive rehabilitation projects covering Quezon Province, Bicol Region, Camarines Sur, Albay, and Samar.
While the estimated budget is still being finalized, project designs are ready with completion targeted by June 2027, Dizon added.