Las Piñas City Projects Built Without Permits Uncovered
In a startling revelation, local leaders reported that forty-two Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) projects worth millions of pesos were constructed in Las Piñas City without securing the necessary permits. The issue came to light through Rep. Mark Anthony Santos, who emphasized the absence of proper authorization for these developments.
According to community members, the city’s district engineering office, previously led by Chief District Engineer Isabelo Baleros, failed to obtain building permits from the city government before starting construction earlier this year. This oversight has raised serious concerns about regulatory compliance and public safety.
Inspection Confirms Lack of Permits
Acting City Engineer Michael Aguilar confirmed in a letter that all 42 DPWH building projects have no building permits on file. “Our inspectors have conducted thorough evaluations of every project, and none has a permit,” Aguilar wrote, a statement cited by local officials.
Further details revealed that 19 of these projects have been completed, seven remain under construction, and 15 ongoing works have already been issued notices of violation. One construction site even halted operations after receiving such notice.
Leadership Change in Engineering Office
Following these findings, sources reported that Engineer Ruel Umali replaced Isabelo Baleros as head of the Las Piñas-Muntinlupa District Engineering Office. This change came after a memorandum from DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan, aiming to address the permit violations and improve oversight.
Immediate Actions and Warnings Issued
The City Engineering Office has directed all private contractors and government agencies involved to immediately secure the necessary building, electrical, and plumbing permits. Additionally, zoning and barangay clearances must be obtained to comply with local regulations.
Rep. Santos warned of serious repercussions: “If any illegal structure collapses or violates a neighbor’s easement, the owner is solidarily liable, while architects and engineers who signed plans for such projects may face suspension by the Professional Regulatory Commission under Republic Act (RA) 9266, the Architecture Act of 2004, and RA 544, the Civil Engineering Law.”
Longstanding Permit Issues in Las Piñas
Local leaders noted that for over two decades, several DPWH projects in Las Piñas have been executed without proper permits. “Several DPWH projects in Las Piñas have been spurious and bogus, since private contractors and DPWH engineers never attempted to acquire the necessary permits,” Santos added.
This revelation highlights the urgent need for stricter enforcement and transparency in public infrastructure projects to ensure safety and legal compliance.
For more news and updates on Las Piñas City projects built without permits, visit Filipinokami.com.
