DPWH Forms Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Committee

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has established an Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Committee to address allegations of misconduct among its personnel. This move comes amid the government’s intensified crackdown on irregularities in flood control projects.

According to DPWH Department Order No. 166 series of 2025, dated August 28, the newly formed committee is empowered to investigate graft and corrupt practices involving officials and employees of the Department. Local sources confirmed that the committee’s authority includes the power to issue subpoenas compelling testimony or document submission.

Committee’s Powers and Responsibilities

The order further grants the committee the ability to develop internal procedures aligned with Civil Service Commission guidelines. It can also assemble a technical working group to assist in its tasks. Community members noted that the committee has the right to inspect project sites and obtain records from any DPWH office.

Moreover, the committee is authorized to coordinate with other government agencies to gather information necessary for prosecuting corruption cases. This comprehensive mandate aims to strengthen transparency and accountability within the DPWH.

Leadership and Membership of the Committee

DPWH Special Order No. 142 series of 2025 appointed key officials to the committee. Undersecretary Eric Ayapana of the National Building Code Development Office will serve as chairperson, with Assistant Secretary Medmier Malig as vice chairperson.

Assistant Secretary Michael Villafranca (Support Services)
Director Gliricidia Tumaliuan (Legal Service)
Director Reynaldo Faustino (Bureau of Quality and Safety)
Director Randy del Rosario (Stakeholders Relations Service)
Assistant Director Melrose Pailma (Bureau of Construction)

Officials reported that these members bring diverse expertise to ensure thorough investigations and effective oversight.

Context Behind the Committee’s Creation

The committee’s formation follows the exposure of alleged “ghost projects” in the Bulacan 1st District Engineering Office. Additionally, the Batangas 1st District Engineering Office chief was arrested for reportedly attempting to bribe a congressman to halt an inquiry into irregularities in provincial infrastructure projects, sources said.

These incidents have heightened public concern over corruption in flood control initiatives. The crackdown intensified after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. highlighted the issue during his fourth State of the Nation Address last July.

Government’s Commitment to Transparency

The directive to combat corruption in flood control projects gained urgency after the country experienced severe flooding. The southwest monsoon (habagat) and three tropical cyclones struck consecutively, causing widespread damage and highlighting the importance of effective infrastructure management.

Local leaders noted that the DPWH’s Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Committee represents a vital step toward restoring public trust and ensuring that resources intended for flood control are used properly.

DPWH Forms Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Committee