DPWH Officials Questioned Over Isabela Bridge Collapse
MANILA, Philippines — Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada sharply criticized certain officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for allegedly retaining their positions despite the Isabela bridge collapse that occurred in February. He stressed that the DPWH must accept full responsibility and accountability for the disaster.
Estrada emphasized the need for the DPWH to not only pursue private contractors but also hold accountable its own officials involved in the planning, approval, and execution of the project. This call for accountability highlights the importance of transparency in public infrastructure projects.
Officials’ Accountability Comes Under Scrutiny
Although Estrada named officials reportedly involved, sources withheld their names pending their response. “Wala tayong nabalitaan na nasuspinding opisyal ng DPWH na may kinalaman sa proyektong ito. Wala rin tayong nabalitaang inimbestigahan sila upang panagutin,” he said.
(We haven’t heard of any DPWH officials being suspended in connection with this project. Nor have we heard of any investigations being conducted to hold them accountable.)
He added, “A bridge does not collapse overnight. Anumang maliliit na bitak ay lumalala, lalo na kapag ito ay binabalewala.”
(A bridge does not collapse overnight. Any small cracks worsen, especially when they are ignored.)
Calls for Justice and Transparency Intensify
Estrada questioned if the officials he referred to were the same individuals alluded to by President Bongbong Marcos in his fourth State of the Nation Address. “Hindi kaya sila ang pinatutungkulan ng Pangulo noong sinabing, mahiya naman kayo?” he asked.
(Could it be that they are the ones the President was referring to when he said, ‘Have some shame?’)
He also expressed concern over the possibility that lower-level individuals might face charges while higher officials evade scrutiny. “Mahirap tanggapin na sa mga susunod na araw ay haharap sa kaso ang maliit na tao na tulad ng driver ng truck na pananagutin ng DPWH, samantalang pinagtatakpan nila ang kanilang mga kasamahan,” Estrada said.
(It’s hard to accept that in the coming days, it will be the ordinary person—like the truck driver—who will face charges and be held accountable by the DPWH, while they cover up for their own colleagues.)
Presidential Warning on Corruption
Earlier, President Marcos issued a stern warning against government officials involved in corruption linked to the country’s flood control projects. He said, “Shame on you. Be ashamed because our fellow Filipinos were swept by floods or were submerged in floodwaters. Be ashamed of our children who will inherit that debt incurred because of what you committed, because you pocketed the funds,” in Filipino.
The controversy surrounding the Isabela bridge collapse underscores the urgent need for accountability and transparency within the DPWH. Citizens and officials alike demand justice for the victims and a thorough investigation to prevent similar tragedies.
For more news and updates on DPWH officials, visit Filipinokami.com.
