Graft Charges Filed Against DPWH Officials in Western Visayas
ILOILO CITY – Allegations of corruption and bid rigging have surfaced against key Department of Public Works and Highways-6 (DPWH-6) officials. These officials are accused of manipulating the bidding process to favor the Iloilo-based International Builders Corp. (IBC), the largest contractor in the Western Visayas region. This case has drawn attention due to the scale of government infrastructure contracts involved.
According to sources familiar with the matter, DPWH-6’s awarding of contracts worth billions of pesos has raised concerns. For the fiscal year 2024 alone, nearly P2.4 billion out of the department’s P9-billion infrastructure budget was reportedly granted to IBC despite the company’s history of project violations.
Details of the Alleged Bid Rigging
The complaint, lodged by an anti-corruption watchdog group, named several DPWH-6 officials, including the Regional Director. The group urged authorities to conduct a thorough investigation to ensure transparency and accountability in public procurement.
The allegations highlight that the contracts awarded to IBC were questionable given the firm’s past performance issues with government projects. Among these were the construction of the Ungka and Aganan Flyovers in Iloilo, which were criticized as substandard and linked to a former senator’s initiatives.
Officials and Contractors Named in Complaint
Those implicated include the chairperson and members of the DPWH-6 Bids and Awards Committee, along with several district engineers. The complaint also lists the president of IBC as a respondent in the case.
The watchdog organization behind the filing is a non-government entity committed to exposing corruption. They emphasized the importance of upholding integrity within government dealings to maintain public trust.
Call for Transparent Investigation
Community leaders and local experts have expressed hope that the Ombudsman will promptly address these allegations. They stress that fair bidding processes are essential to ensure that public funds are used effectively and projects meet quality standards.
For more news and updates on DPWH officials in Western Visayas, visit Filipinokami.com.
