Substandard Flood Project Sparks Scandal: DPWH Staff Dismissed After Governor Blocked from Inspection

Oriental Mindoro — The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has dismissed staff and issued a formal apology after Governor Humerlito “Bonz” Dolor was prevented by a security guard from inspecting a collapsed flood control project in Naujan.

DPWH Mimaropa Regional Director Gerald Pacanan confirmed that a project engineer and other personnel assigned to the project were removed following concerns about improper conduct during Dolor’s inspection.

“Humihingi po ako ng tawad sa kaniya at sa buong mamamayan ng Mindoro dahil hindi po 'yon dapat nangyari,” Pacanan said, expressing regret over the incident at the publicly funded project site.

The confrontation occurred as Dolor sought to examine flood control works recently damaged during heavy rains, which revealed hollow concrete structures and other signs of substandard construction.

“Wala hong flood na mapipigilan nang ganitong klaseng gawa. Konting semento na nga lang, tinipid pa,” the governor noted, criticizing the construction quality.

Pacanan said the DPWH has launched a fact-finding investigation covering all flood control projects across the Mimaropa region. The probe will review design specifications, construction materials, and implementation standards.

“Kami ay seryoso sa mga alegasyon na ito at sisiguraduhin naming may mananagot kung mapapatunayang may naganap na anomalya,” Pacanan said, vowing accountability if irregularities are confirmed.

The regional director added that replacing project personnel is intended to prevent potential collusion between contractors and engineers, protect public funds, and ensure proper project execution.

The recent flood control failures have drawn national attention. Senator Rodante Marcoleta has scheduled Blue Ribbon Committee hearings beginning Tuesday to examine billions of pesos worth of questionable infrastructure projects nationwide.