MANILA, Philippines — Public Works and Highways Secretary Manuel Bonoan has reaffirmed the department’s commitment to internal cleansing, stating that the filing of administrative and criminal cases against erring officials will continue. The move is part of a broader anti-corruption drive aimed at eliminating irregularities in the procurement and implementation of infrastructure projects across the country.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is currently investigating several district offices and regional bureaus following reports of substandard construction and “ghost projects.” According to department officials, recent audits have uncovered discrepancies in the liquidation of funds and the timeline of various road and bridge developments.
“We will not tolerate any form of corruption or negligence within our ranks,” a DPWH representative said. “The public deserves transparency and quality in every peso spent on national infrastructure. Those found guilty of compromising our standards will face the full force of the law.”
The agency has partnered with the Office of the Ombudsman and the Commission on Audit (COA) to streamline the investigation process. Several high-ranking officials have already been placed under preventive suspension while their cases are being adjudicated. This intensified crackdown follows directives from the executive branch to ensure that the “Build Better More” program remains free from systemic leaks and unethical practices.
Aside from legal prosecution, the DPWH is also implementing stricter digital monitoring tools to track project progress in real-time. By utilizing drone technology and satellite imaging, the department hopes to prevent future anomalies before they can escalate into major financial losses for the government.