Public Works Secretary Targets Flood-Control Projects Irregularities
Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan issued a stern warning regarding irregularities in flood-control projects. Following recent developments, he declared that district engineers involved in wrongdoing risk immediate removal. This statement came amid investigations into officials linked to alleged anomalies in flood-control projects.
In a phone interview, sources reported that Bonoan reacted to the arrest of Abelardo Calalo, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Batangas 1st District Engineer. Calalo was apprehended for reportedly trying to bribe a lawmaker to halt an ongoing investigation into flood-control projects in the area.
Zero Tolerance for Corruption in Flood-Control Projects
“To those still engaging in this kind of wrongdoing, think twice. I will not have any second thoughts—I will remove all of you if I hear of this happening again,” Bonoan said in Filipino. He stressed that his office is actively investigating other district engineers potentially involved in similar irregularities.
While he acknowledged ongoing inquiries, officials noted that it is premature to disclose all evidence. Nonetheless, Bonoan confirmed that he has issued a suspension order against Calalo, effective Tuesday, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.
Bribery Case Sparks Calls for Reform
Calalo allegedly attempted to bribe Batangas 1st District Representative Leandro Leviste with over P3 million. Leviste confirmed the incident and announced plans to file charges against Calalo at the Batangas Provincial Prosecutor’s Office.
Leviste emphasized the need to eradicate corruption within the DPWH. “We should not tolerate any corruption in DPWH. We should demand projects of better quality and lower cost, and obligate contractors to correct any deficiencies immediately without additional cost to the government. Beyond this case, we will push for broader reforms to address systemic problems of DPWH,” he said in a public statement.
Entrapment Operation and Legal Proceedings
According to local law enforcement reports, Calalo was arrested in Taal, Batangas on August 22 during an entrapment operation. He is now in police custody and faces charges for corruption under Article 212 of the Revised Penal Code and the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (Republic Act No. 3019).
Commitment to Clean Governance
The decisive actions taken against Calalo aim to serve as a warning to all district engineers and officials involved in flood-control projects. Community members and officials alike expect that these efforts will promote transparency and accountability within the DPWH.
Bonoan’s firm stance signals a commitment to clean governance and the integrity of flood-control projects, which are vital for public safety and infrastructure resilience.
For more news and updates on flood-control projects, visit Filipinokami.com.