DPWH Secretary Dizon Orders Mass Resignations in “Clean Sweep” Initiative

The Department of Public Works and Highways is set for a major overhaul as Secretary Vince Dizon initiates a ‘clean sweep,’ ordering all officials to resign in response to President Marcos’ anti-corruption directive.

Vince Dizon and PBBM Photo File PPTV

Manila, Philippines – In a bold move signaling a new era for the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), newly appointed Secretary Vince Dizon announced Monday that he would order the courtesy resignation of all DPWH officials, from undersecretaries to district engineers nationwide. The announcement comes on the heels of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to purge the department following allegations of irregularities in multibillion-peso flood control projects.

Dizon, who was sworn in earlier that day, framed the move as the start of a “clean sweep” aimed at restoring public trust, ensuring transparency, and guaranteeing that infrastructure spending benefits the Filipino people.

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Ang unang-una ko pong order na ilalabas ay ang pag-order ng courtesy resignations top to bottom: usec, asec, division head, regional director, hanggang district engineer ng buong bansa (My first order to be issued is to order courtesy resignations top to bottom: undersecretary, assistant secretary, division head, regional director, up to district engineer for the entire country),” Dizon stated during a Palace press briefing.

He emphasized the President’s direct instructions, stating, “Iyan po ang unang-unang direktiba ng ating Pangulo. Nag-usap po kami nang matagal kaninang umaga at ang sabi niya ‘linisin’ ang DPWH at ito po ang simula (That was the very first directive of our President. We talked for a long time this morning and he said to ‘clean up’ the DPWH and this is the beginning).”

Secretary Dizon plans to implement the extensive reorganization within a 30 to 60-day timeframe.

The move follows the resignation of former DPWH chief Manuel Bonoan, who stepped down under the principle of “command responsibility” after anomalies in flood control projects came to light.

Dizon, who previously served as Transportation Secretary and Presidential Adviser on Flagship Programs, pledged to uphold the President’s mandate to rebuild public confidence in the DPWH and ensure that infrastructure projects are executed with integrity, transparency, and efficiency. The initiative is expected to set a new standard for governance and accountability within the department.


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Iloilo City Mayor Backs Dizon’s DPWH Appointment, Cites “Fast Action” and Covid-19 Success

Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas has expressed strong support for the appointment of Vince Dizon as the new Secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), citing his reputation for hard work and rapid response to concerns.

In a media interview on Monday, Mayor Treñas lauded President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s decision, emphasizing Dizon’s track record during his time at the Department of Transportation (DOTr). “He is very hardworking and acts fast,” she stated, recalling how Dizon consistently addressed their concerns and ensured immediate responses.

Treñas highlighted Dizon’s impact on Iloilo City, particularly noting his attention to improving airport services with clear timelines and targets. “Even in our airport here, he already has timelines and targets to make sure services are faster,” she said. The mayor also praised Dizon’s effectiveness during the Covid-19 pandemic. “During the time of the Covid-19, Secretary Vince was also very effective. I believe he can deliver more in the DPWH,” she added.

The mayor also indicated that she would leave it to Dizon to address issues with the district engineer of the Iloilo City District Engineering Office, hinting at existing coordination challenges. “The city government has coordination issues with District Engineer Roy Pacanan on project implementation,” Treñas revealed.

Dizon’s appointment follows the resignation of Manuel Bonoan amid allegations of irregularities in flood control projects. He was officially sworn in by President Marcos on Monday. With the backing of key local leaders like Mayor Treñas, Dizon is expected to bring a fresh perspective and decisive leadership to the DPWH, tackling long-standing issues and driving infrastructure development forward