By multi-media, that is, is Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Vince Dizon inspecting on Jan. 30 the collapsed slope protection of the flood control project in Barangay Candating, Arayat, Pampanga, which damaged a total of 20 houses exactly a week ago. Amid the destruction, Dizon perfunctorily ordered a thorough investigation to ensure accountability and directing immediate assessment and repairs to prevent further risks to residents.
Mayhaps, needing a headline chasing soundbite to complement some dramatic reels and photos, Dizon disclosed the names of three DPWH-Pampanga officials who, at that very moment, have been relieved and suspended following a report he received a few days ago that they were extracting up to 8% on DPWH contracts.
Vowed Dizon: “We are going to conduct a full-blown investigation kung totoo ba ‘yung report na natanggap ko na humihingi sila ng porsyento sa mga proyekto sa District 2 [Pampanga District Engineering Office 2].”
The Candating flood control project is under the jurisdiction of District 1.
“Hindi dito,” Dizon said of the assignments of officials he relieved.
Punto Op-Ed/Contributed photos
