DPWH Unleashes Fury: 20 Officials, 4 Contractors Charged in Flood Control Scandal
In a dramatic move signaling zero tolerance for corruption, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has launched a major offensive, filing charges against 20 officials from its Bulacan 1st District Engineering Office and four private contractors. The charges stem from alleged anomalies in flood control projects, casting a dark shadow over the integrity of public works in the region.
Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon personally delivered the damning documents to the Office of the Ombudsman on Thursday, setting the stage for legal battles under the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, the Revised Penal Code, and other related laws. The move underscores the DPWH’s commitment to rooting out corruption, no matter the personal connections involved.
“All those who need to be held accountable must be held accountable. Even if he knows them, if they are his friends, his allies, all must be held accountable. This is just the beginning while the Independent Commission that our President will establish is not yet in place,” Dizon declared, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
The extensive list of officials facing charges includes:
- Former District Engineer Henry C. Alcantara
- Former Assistant District Engineer Brice Ericson D. Hernandez
- Construction Section Chiefs Jaypee D. Mendoza and John Michael E. Ramos
- Planning and Design Section Chief Ernesto C. Galang
- OIC Maintenance Section Chiefs Lorenzo A. Pagtalunan and Jaime R. Hernandez
- Quality Assurance Section Chief Norberto L. Santos
- Administrative Section Chief Floralyn Y. Simbulan
- Finance Section Juanito C. Mendoza
- Budget Unit Head Roberto A. Roque
- Procurement Unit Head Benedict J. Matawaran
- Cashier Christina Mae D. Pineda
- Project Engineers Paul Jayson F. Duya, Merg Jaron C. Laus, Lemuel Ephraim C. Roque, Arjay S. Domasig, John Carlo C. Rivera, John Benex S. Francisco, and Engr. Jolo Mari V. Tayao.
The contractors implicated in the scandal are:
- Sally N. Santos of SYMS Construction Trading
- Mark Allan V. Arevalo of Wawao Builders
- Ma. Roma Angeline D. Rimando with beneficial owner Cezarah Rowena C. Discaya of St. Timothy Construction Corporation
- Robert T. Imperio of IM Construction Corporation.
Secretary Dizon passionately asserted, “We will all get the justice that we all deserve as Filipinos.” He also issued a call to action, urging the public to report any suspected anomalies involving DPWH projects or officials.
“I am asking for the help of the people. Let us channel our anger to catch them. You are already used to me; in the past, you sent ‘kamote’ drivers to the streets. Now, look for them, send them to us. Believe me, all of them will be included in cases like this in the coming weeks, next month,” Dizon added, promising further action and accountability.
The DPWH’s aggressive stance against corruption sends a clear message: those who betray public trust will face the full force of the law. As the legal proceedings unfold, the nation watches, hopeful that justice will prevail and that this crackdown will pave the way for a more transparent and accountable public works sector.
DPWH Suspends Uniform Policy Amidst Internal Allegations
In a surprising move that has sent ripples through the ranks, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has announced a temporary suspension of its mandatory office uniform policy. The directive, issued by Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon on Tuesday, comes as the department grapples with serious allegations, the nature of which have not yet been disclosed.
The memorandum released by Secretary Dizon stated, “In light of current events, all officials and employees of the DPWH are excused from wearing the prescribed office uniform until further notice.” This unprecedented decision signals a significant shift in protocol, prompting speculation and discussion among employees and observers alike.
While the suspension offers a temporary reprieve from the usual dress code, the DPWH has emphasized that professional appearance remains paramount. Employees are still required to adhere to the Civil Service Commission Memorandum Circular No. 16, s. 2024, which outlines the Revised Dress Code for Government Officials and Employees. This ensures that the standards of professionalism in public service are maintained, even as the department navigates these challenging times.
“All officials and employees of the DPWH are nevertheless expected to report for duty in appropriate and presentable attire at all times… and in keeping with the standards of professionalism in public service,” Dizon’s statement continued.
The decision to suspend the uniform policy has been met with mixed reactions. Some employees see it as a welcome change, providing a bit of flexibility during a potentially stressful period. Others are curious about the underlying reasons and what the “current events” alluded to in the memorandum might entail.
The DPWH has not released further details regarding the allegations, but the suspension of the uniform policy suggests the situation is being taken with utmost seriousness. As the department works to address these internal issues, the public will be watching closely to see how these events unfold and what measures will be taken to ensure accountability and maintain public trust.
DPWH Files Criminal Complaint in Flood Control Scandal, Opts for Graft Charges Over Plunder
In a decisive move against corruption, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has officially filed a criminal complaint with the Office of the Ombudsman against former officials and contractors implicated in a major flood control scandal. The action, taken on Thursday, September 11, signals a firm commitment to accountability and transparency within the agency.
The complaint alleges serious violations of Republic Act 3019, also known as the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, as well as malversation through falsification of public documents, and breaches of the Government Procurement Act. These charges stem from five anomalous flood control projects located in the Bulacan municipalities of Malolos, Hagonoy, Bulakan, and Baliwag.
DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon explained the strategic decision to pursue graft charges instead of plunder, stating that graft is “easier and faster to prove.” While plunder requires evidence of at least P50 million in ill-gotten wealth acquired personally by the accused, graft charges have a lower threshold, making prosecution more efficient.
“We are committed to ensuring that those who abuse their positions for personal gain are brought to justice,” Secretary Dizon emphasized. “Filing these charges is a crucial step in sending a message that corruption will not be tolerated within the DPWH.”
The DPWH’s action has been met with cautious optimism from civil society groups. “This is a welcome development, but the real test will be whether these cases are pursued vigorously and result in convictions,” said a spokesperson for the Coalition Against Corruption.
The Ombudsman is now tasked with reviewing the complaint and determining whether there is sufficient evidence to proceed with formal charges. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for the future of infrastructure projects and anti-corruption efforts in the Philippines.
Continuing its crackdown on corruption, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has officially filed a criminal complaint with the Office of the Ombudsman against individuals and companies implicated in a major flood control scandal. The complaint, filed on Thursday, September 11, names key players from both the private and public sectors, signaling a determined effort to root out corruption within the agency.
Among those named in the complaint are Sarah Discaya and Ma. Roma Angeline Rimando of St. Timothy Construction, Mark Arevalo of Wawao Builders, Sally Santos of SYMS Construction Trading, and Robert Imperio of IM Construction Corporation. These individuals and their respective companies face allegations of serious violations of Republic Act 3019, the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, as well as malversation through falsification of public documents, and breaches of the Government Procurement Act.
Notably, St. Timothy Construction and Wawao Builders were among the Marcos administration’s top flood control contractors. However, Wawao Builders and SYMS Construction Trading have since been flagged for ghost projects and are now permanently barred from bidding on DPWH contracts. Additionally, companies linked to the Discaya family have also been recently disqualified from government procurement processes.
Interestingly, Curlee Discaya, Sarah’s husband, was not included in the complaint, as only Sarah admitted to being the “beneficial owner” of St. Timothy Construction.
The complaint also targets former public works officials, including former Bulacan 1st district engineer Henry Alcantara, former district engineer Brice Hernandez, and former assistant district engineer Jaypee Mendoza. These officials are accused of facilitating the anomalous flood control projects in Malolos, Hagonoy, Bulakan, and Baliwag, Bulacan.
DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon emphasized the strategic decision to pursue graft charges instead of plunder, stating that graft is “easier and faster to prove.”
The Ombudsman is now tasked with reviewing the complaint and determining whether there is sufficient evidence to proceed with formal charges. The outcome of this case is highly anticipated and could set a precedent for future anti-corruption efforts in the Philippines.
In a bold move to dismantle a pervasive corruption network, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has filed a sweeping criminal complaint with the Office of the Ombudsman, implicating contractors, former officials, and a host of current DPWH staff in a massive flood control scandal. The complaint, filed on Thursday, September 11, reveals a complex web of kickbacks, ghost projects, and falsified documents.
The complaint names Sarah Discaya and Ma. Roma Angeline Rimando of St. Timothy Construction, Mark Arevalo of Wawao Builders, Sally Santos of SYMS Construction Trading, and Robert Imperio of IM Construction Corporation. Also included are former Bulacan 1st district engineer Henry Alcantara, former district engineer Brice Hernandez, and former assistant district engineer Jaypee Mendoza. Alcantara had previously been dismissed from his post for signing completion certificates for infrastructure projects that never existed.
The DPWH’s investigation uncovered a disturbing modus operandi. During a congressional probe, Sally Santos of SYMS Construction Trading testified that projects awarded to her company were, in reality, controlled by Bulacan DPWH engineers. Santos admitted that she merely lent her license to the engineers, taking a 3% cut while turning over the rest of the funds to Hernandez. She stated that the engineers managed everything, from preparing documents to securing inspectors’ signatures, before informing her that the money had been deposited into her account.
According to Hernandez, the boxes of cash that Santos delivered to him were subsequently picked up by Alcantara, a claim Alcantara vehemently denies.
When SYMS became too small to qualify for larger projects, Santos turned to Mark Arevalo of Wawao Builders, who charged a 2.8% fee for the use of his license, while Santos continued to act as a middle player for the engineers.
The complaint also includes a long list of DPWH staff members:
- Benedict J. Matawaran, Head, Procurement Unit
- Christina Mae D. Pineda, Cashier II
- Paul Jayson F. Duya, Project Engineer
- Merg Jaron C. Laus, Project Engineer
- Lemuel Ephraim C. Roque, Project Engineer
- Arjay S. Domasig, Project Engineer
- John Carlo C. Rivera, Project Engineer
- John Benex S. Francisco, Project Engineer
- Roberto A. Roque, Head, Budget Unit
- John Michael E. Ramos, Chief Construction Section
- Ernesto C. Galang, Chief, Planning And Design Section
- Lorenzo A. Pagtalunan, OIC-Chief, Maintenance Section
- Norberto L. Santos, Chief, Quality Assurance Section
- Jaimer Hernandez, OIC-Chief, Maintenance Section
- Floralyn Y. Simbulan, Chief, Administrative Section
- Juanito C. Mendoza, Chief, Finance Section
- Jolo Mari. V Tayao, Engineer II
DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon stated that most of the officials named in the complaint are still in office but are undergoing dismissal proceedings. He emphasized that Alcantara, Hernandez, and Mendoza have already been dismissed. “This is just the first of many complaints we will file against individuals involved in corruption,” Dizon asserted.
The scandal has also ensnared elected officials. Hernandez alleged that Senators Joel Villanueva and Jinggoy Estrada received kickbacks, claims both lawmakers have strongly denied. Similarly, the Discaya couple accused several lawmakers and other officials, including Alcantara, of demanding kickbacks in exchange for contracts, allegations that have also been denied.
The Ombudsman is now tasked with investigating these serious allegations and determining whether formal charges should be filed. The outcome of this case will undoubtedly have far-reaching consequences for the DPWH and the fight against corruption in the Philippines.
Lacson Links Ex-DPWH Secretary Bonoan to Flood Control Contractor
Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson has publicly connected former Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manuel Bonoan to a contractor involved in flood control projects in Bulacan, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest.
During a privilege speech at Tuesday’s Senate session, Lacson accused Bonoan of having a business relationship with Candaba, Pampanga Mayor Rene Maglanque. Lacson identified Maglanque as the former president of Globalcrete Builders, a company that secured P2.195 billion worth of flood control projects from 2018 to 2024, primarily in Bulacan. Maglanque is also allegedly connected to MBB Global Properties Corporation, which owns the nearly P1-billion Wyndham Garden Hotel in Clark, Pampanga.
Lacson further revealed that other families, including Bonoan’s, have ownership stakes in MBB Global Properties Corporation. Citing a 2024 General Information Sheet of the company, the senator listed the following executives:
- Macy Monique Maglanque, President
- Sunshine M. Bernardo, Corporate Secretary
- Fatima Gay B. (Bonoan) Dela Cruz, Treasurer
Lacson’s allegations raise questions about potential impropriety and whether Bonoan’s position as DPWH Secretary may have influenced the awarding of flood control contracts to Globalcrete Builders. The senator’s revelations are likely to prompt further investigation into the relationships between government officials and private contractors involved in infrastructure projects.
Senator Panfilo Lacson has intensified his scrutiny of alleged corruption in flood control projects, urging the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to investigate the connections between former Secretary Manuel Bonoan and contractors involved in anomalous deals.
Lacson highlighted the significance of the acronym “MBB,” noting that it represents the prominent surnames in the ongoing flood control controversy: “Maglanque, Bernardo, Bonoan — MBB. Coincidentally, these are the prominent surnames in today’s flood control saga: Candaba Mayor Rene Maglanque, patriarch of the Maglanques behind Globalcrete Builders, the contractor for multi-billion peso flood control projects,” Lacson stated. He also pointed to “DPWH Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo, who recently opted for early retirement after being implicated in the anomalous flood control projects; and of course, former DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan.”
Lacson urged his colleagues to “connect the dots,” emphasizing that the executives of MBB were the children of the officials he mentioned. “Kaya naman pala ang palaging depensa ni dating DPWH Sec. Bonoan — isolated case lang daw ang nakita ni Pangulong Bongbong Marcos na ghost project sa Bulacan,” Lacson remarked, suggesting that Bonoan’s insistence that a ghost project discovered by President Bongbong Marcos in Bulacan was merely an isolated incident was a deliberate attempt to protect Globalcrete from further scrutiny.
“No wonder former DPWH Secretary Bonoan kept insisting that the ghost project in Bulacan, discovered by President Bongbong Marcos, was just an isolated case,” Lacson stated. “Bonoan probably doesn’t want Globalcrete to be further exposed in the investigation.”
Lacson called on the DPWH to include Bonoan and others connected to Globalcrete Builders in the charges they file against those involved in anomalous infrastructure projects, underscoring the need for a thorough and impartial investigation to uncover the full extent of the alleged corruption.
Romualdez Has No Plans to Step Down, Says House Speaker Spokesperson
Former lawmaker and current House Speaker Spokesperson Ace Barbers has dismissed rumors of an impending leadership change in the House of Representatives, asserting that Speaker Martin Romualdez enjoys the unwavering support of the vast majority of congressmen.
In a media interview on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, Barbers emphasized that there is “no reason for the Speaker to resign or step down.” He further stated that “Majority of the members of Congress has again thrown their support to him, believing in his leadership.”
Addressing the calls for Romualdez’s removal, Barbers downplayed their significance, claiming that fewer than 10 individuals were pushing for his ouster. He insisted that a significant percentage of the House continues to support the Speaker.
“Kung mayroon man, it makes no sense sa’kin. It doesn’t really make sense… Kasi bakit? Habang 90% ng kasamahan mo ay naniniwala at sumosuporta sa’yo, then you will resign? Bakit?” Barbers questioned, suggesting the idea of Romualdez resigning with such strong support was illogical.
Barbers reiterated that there are no plans within the House of Representatives to change its leadership, and Romualdez himself has no intention of resigning. “Walang planong mag-resign, walang planong pagtatanggal, wala ring planong magkaroon ng palit ng liderato,” Barbers affirmed.
The issues surrounding Romualdez’s potential resignation or removal emerged after he was named, along with other congressmen, in connection with alleged kickbacks from Discaya flood control project contracts. Despite these allegations, Barbers maintains that Romualdez remains firmly in control of the House leadership.
Barzaga Calls for Investigation of Romualdez After Leaving Party
Cavite 4th District Representative Kiko Barzaga has publicly announced his support for an investigation into House Speaker Martin Romualdez, following his departure from their political party and the House majority bloc.
In a Facebook post on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, Barzaga explained that his earlier support for Romualdez was based on a decision made by the National Unity Party (NUP), to which he belonged at the time.
“While the betrayal of trust is disappointing, I believe it is in the best interests of both myself and the National Unity Party that we go our separate ways,” Barzaga stated. “I will also be leaving the majority since I voted for Speaker Romualdez due to my party’s instructions.”
Now free from the constraints of his former party, Barzaga is advocating for greater scrutiny of the House Speaker. “I supported Speaker Romualdez due to this, though now that I am free from my party’s constraints, I suggest that he must be investigated for any anomalies involving Flood Control Public Funds,” he declared.
Barzaga’s call for investigation marks a significant shift in the political landscape, raising questions about potential rifts within the ruling coalition and the future of Romualdez’s leadership in the House. The public awaits further developments as this story unfolds.
The political drama surrounding Cavite 4th District Representative Kiko Barzaga continues to unfold, with new allegations and developments adding layers to the ongoing saga.
Barzaga’s departure from the majority bloc and the National Unity Party (NUP) reportedly stemmed from accusations that he was gathering signatures to oust House Speaker Martin Romualdez. Barzaga vehemently denied these claims, stating, “Yesterday night, I have been informed that Deputy Speaker Puno, the chairman of the National Unity Party, implicated me in a plot to remove Speaker Romualdez from his position, and that I am collecting signatures to do so. That notion is false.”
Adding a curious twist to the narrative, Barzaga recently shared a photo on his Facebook account, “Congressman Kiko Barzaga,” showing him in a wheelchair and wearing a neck brace. The caption simply read, “DPWH hearing.” The image has sparked speculation and intrigue, with many wondering about the circumstances surrounding his condition and its connection to the ongoing political turmoil.
Meanwhile, separate hearings are being conducted by the Senate and the House regarding alleged anomalies in flood control projects, with several officials and congressmen, including Romualdez, implicated in the controversy.
As the investigations proceed and political tensions escalate, the public remains keenly observant, awaiting further revelations and resolutions in this complex and multifaceted case.
Sott, Barzaga Trade Barbs Over Vico Sotto’s Political Independence
Senate President Tito Sotto III has publicly criticized Cavite 4th District Representative Kiko Barzaga for allegedly exploiting Pasig Mayor Vico Sotto’s reputation to boost his own political profile. The senator didn’t mince words, labeling Barzaga as “Epal” and accusing him of using Vico’s name for self-promotion.
The exchange was triggered by Barzaga’s remarks suggesting that Mayor Vico Sotto’s options for investigation might be limited due to his grandfather, Senator Tito Sotto’s, close ties with Romualdez.
Senator Sotto responded to these claims, asserting that Barzaga was missing several key points. He emphasized his long-standing friendships with a diverse group of politicians, including Martin Romualdez, Toby Tiangco, Albee Benitez, Benny Amante, Leila De Lima, Caloy Zarate, and Paolo Duterte, among others.
“I follow what is right no matter who my friends are, close or not,” Sotto stated. He further clarified the Senate’s procedures, noting that the Blue Ribbon Committee, not the Senate President, is responsible for conducting inquiries. “Fact check muna,” the senator advised, suggesting Barzaga should verify his information before making such claims.
This public disagreement highlights the complex relationships and potential conflicts of interest within Philippine politics, as well as the ongoing scrutiny faced by public figures and their families.
Former DPWH Engineer’s Lavish Lifestyle Sparks Public Outcry
The extravagant wealth of former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) engineer Henry Alcantara has ignited a wave of “sana all” (a Filipino expression of envy) among the public, but not without raising serious questions. Alcantara’s possession of million-peso watches and luxury vehicles has come under intense scrutiny, especially considering his declared monthly salary of only P100,000.
Adding to the intrigue, Alcantara has also made significant donations, including a building, an ambulance, and a fire truck. These generous contributions, juxtaposed against his relatively modest official income, have fueled speculation about the source of his wealth.
The discrepancy between Alcantara’s apparent affluence and his declared earnings has prompted calls for a thorough investigation into his financial affairs. Critics are demanding transparency and accountability, urging authorities to determine whether Alcantara’s wealth was acquired through legitimate means or through illicit activities during his tenure at the DPWH.
This case underscores the ongoing challenges in combating corruption and ensuring ethical conduct within government agencies. The public is eagerly awaiting answers, as the Alcantara controversy serves as a stark reminder of the need for greater scrutiny of public officials’ financial dealings.