DPWH Faces Calls for One-Strike Policy
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is being urged to adopt a one-strike policy to discipline corrupt engineers. This call came amid growing concerns about irregularities in infrastructure projects, especially flood control initiatives. The exact four word keyphrase, one-strike policy against corrupt engineers, highlights the growing demand for accountability within the DPWH ranks.
Las Piñas Representative Mark Anthony Santos stressed the urgency of implementing this system, similar to the Philippine National Police’s approach to erring officers. He emphasized that the DPWH must take strong actions against personnel, particularly district engineers, who are allegedly involved in corrupt practices.
Protecting Infrastructure Integrity and Public Funds
“Public works projects are vital to national development. We cannot allow corrupt practices to compromise the quality, safety, and integrity of these initiatives,” Santos said. He added that DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan must adopt a zero-tolerance approach by promptly removing officials implicated in anomalies.
This issue extends beyond Las Piñas alone, as various local government units and national agencies have raised alarms over irregularities in flood control and road projects nationwide. Santos pointed out that it is a broader matter of accountability, safeguarding taxpayer money, and ensuring quality public service for all citizens.
Controversy Over Fund Transfers in Las Piñas
On August 5, Santos formally requested the replacement of the district engineer for Las Piñas and Muntinlupa due to alleged involvement in questionable transactions. The engineer in question, Isabelo Baleros, reportedly requested the transfer of funds for multiple projects from his district office to the DPWH regional office without consulting local officials.
Santos claimed that this transfer was approved by Public Works Assistant Secretary Loreta Malaluan and confirmed by Secretary Bonoan, bypassing key local government bodies such as the Office of the Mayor, the Congressional Representative, the City Engineering Office, and the Sangguniang Panlungsod.
“This is a glaring act of bypassing local governance. How can you move hundreds of millions of pesos without informing the elected officials of the city? This reek of backroom maneuvering,” Santos remarked.
Questions Surrounding Infrastructure Funds
Residents of Las Piñas have raised critical questions. “Was there even a single project completed before the funds were shifted? Or is this about moving money to where it can be controlled by a select few?” Santos asked. He stressed that infrastructure funds should protect lives and property, not be shuffled around without transparency and accountability.
During a House of Representatives committee hearing on public accounts, Santos reiterated these concerns. He revealed that P450 million allocated for 27 projects under the 2025 General Appropriations Act had been transferred, intensifying scrutiny over fund management.
Secretary Bonoan acknowledged Santos’ frustration during the hearing and said he would consider the recommendations to improve oversight.
National Scrutiny Amid Presidential Condemnations
Flood control projects nationwide are currently under intense examination by various government bodies, spurred by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recent State of the Nation Address. The president condemned officials and contractors allegedly receiving kickbacks from these projects, calling their actions shameful.
Senator Panfilo Lacson also voiced concerns, warning that nearly half of the country’s P2 trillion flood control funds since 2011 may have been lost. He urged a comprehensive review of these projects to prevent further misuse.
PNP’s One-Strike Policy as a Model
Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police has successfully implemented a one-strike policy targeting various offenses. In 2023, former PNP chief retired General Benjamin Acorda Jr. intensified efforts against illegal gambling through a strict “one strike and no-take policy.” Under this policy, police officials who fail to control illegal gambling are immediately relieved and held accountable under command responsibility.
Similarly, in January 2023, the National Capital Region Police Office chief enforced a one-strike policy against officers discharging firearms during New Year celebrations, reflecting the PNP’s commitment to discipline and accountability.
Local leaders and officials believe that adopting a one-strike policy against corrupt engineers in the DPWH could significantly enhance the integrity of public infrastructure projects and restore public trust.
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