DPWH Budget Review Underway to Cut Corruption Risks
Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon expressed openness to reducing the proposed P881.3 billion budget for the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) next year by eliminating funds linked to flood control and corruption-prone projects. This move aims to ensure that the department’s budget is focused on genuine needs and free from wasteful spending.
During the House committee on appropriations deliberations, Dizon requested a week to thoroughly address all red flags identified in the DPWH budget proposal for 2026. Officials reported that this review aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive for a comprehensive assessment of the agency’s budget after senators raised concerns about redundant projects, unspecified locations, and funds allocated for already completed works.
Focus on Flood Control Projects and Budget Efficiency
The review will notably include flood control projects, which currently account for about P268 billion—roughly one-third of the entire DPWH budget. Community members noted Dizon’s determination to cut unnecessary allocations without compromising critical interventions in areas truly vulnerable to flooding.
“We really have to reduce that without compromising for the areas that really need it. What we’re seeing now is that there are several areas that implement flood control projects that need fixing. We do not need to add more budget to flood control projects in areas where it is not needed,” Dizon said.
Leadership Changes and Budget Scrutiny
Dizon took over as Public Works Secretary after Manuel Bonoan resigned amid investigations into anomalous flood control projects. Sources revealed that Dizon has yet to complete his full review of the proposed budget but remains committed to revising it to ensure transparency and efficiency.
He supported the suggestion from appropriations chair Rep. Mikaela Suansing to prioritize flood control projects only in areas classified as red zones under the University of the Philippines’ Project NOAH flood hazard map. This scientific approach aims to prevent politically motivated or unnecessary projects.
Science-Based Project Selection and Anti-Corruption Measures
ACT Teachers Rep. Antonio Tinio highlighted that many flood control projects seem based on river basin management plans rather than localized flood risk assessments. Dizon acknowledged this concern, affirming, “I cannot say for certain that [this means that these projects are politically driven], but I can at least commit that for next year’s budget, we will make sure that all such projects are based on science.”
In addition, Dizon expressed willingness to remove proposed funds for rock-netting, asphalt overlays, and solar rock studs, which have long been flagged as major sources of kickbacks. He also promised to scrutinize the practice of splitting DPWH contracts into phases or packages, which some lawmakers suspect of masking irregularities due to their uniform amounts and rounded figures.
Commitment to Clean Up the Budget
“It will just take a lot of cleaning up because there are a lot even in the 2026 budget,” Dizon said. “We will try our best to clean these up.” Local leaders noted that the ongoing budget review signals a stronger commitment to transparency and accountability within the DPWH.
For more news and updates on DPWH budget review, visit Filipinokami.com.
