Former Bulacan first district assistant engineers Brice Hernandez and Jaypee Mendoza have been dismissed from the Department of Public Works and Highways, the DPWH Secretary said.

“Alcantara, Hernandez, Mendoza have been dismissed from the DPWH. As for the others, the process of their dismissal from the DPWH has already begun,” the secretary stated.

The dismissal of the former Bulacan first district engineer from the DPWH had been announced earlier.

In the same interview, more contractors have been blacklisted from the DPWH over anomalous flood control projects.

“These contractors have been blacklisted.”

The DPWH chief was referring to the cases filed by the department with the Office of the Ombudsman, including:

  • St. Timothy Construction Corporation
  • SYMS Construction Trading
  • Wawao Builders
  • IM Construction Corporation

The President has called for an investigation into anomalous flood control projects. Several government agencies, as well as the Senate and the House of Representatives, have launched their respective investigations.

Some flood control projects were found to be ghost projects.

Independent Commission for Infrastructure

An executive order has been issued creating the Independent Commission for Infrastructure.

The Executive Order states that it is imperative to constitute an independent body that will investigate and undertake appropriate measures against those involved in irregularities in government infrastructure projects.

The ICI will be composed of a chairperson and two members who shall be persons of proven competence, integrity, probity, and independence.

According to the EO, the body shall, on complaint or motu propio, hear, investigate, receive, gather, and evaluate evidence, intelligence reports, and information, against all government officials and employees, and any other individual, involved in anomalies, irregularities, and misuse of funds in the planning, financing, and implementation of government flood control and other infrastructure projects nationwide.

The ICI shall prioritize the investigation of flood control and other infrastructure projects within the last ten years from the effectivity of the EO.

The ICI shall, based on its findings, recommend the filing of appropriate criminal, civil, and administrative cases or actions against those responsible to the appropriate disciplinary, prosecutorial, and administrative bodies, such as the Office of the President, Office of the Ombudsman, the Department of Justice, and the Civil Service Commission, to exact accountability, in accordance with relevant laws, rules and regulations.

Department of Public Works and Highways

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is the executive department of the Philippine government responsible for the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of national infrastructure, including highways, bridges, and flood control systems. It was formally established in 1868 during the Spanish colonial period and has evolved through various reorganizations, most notably after the country’s independence. Its core mission is to provide and manage quality infrastructure facilities and services that are vital to the nation’s economic development.

Office of the Ombudsman

The Office of the Ombudsman is an independent, impartial institution that investigates complaints from the public against governmental bodies and maladministration. The concept originated in 18th-century Sweden, with the term “ombudsman” meaning “representative” or “agent.” Its modern function has since been adopted by numerous countries worldwide to ensure government accountability and protect citizens’ rights.

St. Timothy Construction Corporation

St. Timothy Construction Corporation is not a historical place or cultural site, but rather a modern commercial business entity. As such, it does not have a public history or cultural significance to summarize. It is a company focused on construction and development services.

SYMS Construction Trading

Syms Construction Trading is a modern construction and trading company, not a historical or cultural site. It specializes in building and infrastructure development, operating within the contemporary commercial and industrial sectors.

Wawao Builders

I am not familiar with a place or cultural site named “Wawao Builders.” It is possible the name is misspelled, refers to a very localized or obscure entity, or is not a recognized cultural or historical landmark. Could you please provide any additional context or check the spelling?

IM Construction Corporation

IM Construction Corporation is not a cultural site or historical landmark, but a private company specializing in construction and development services. As a business entity, it does not have a publicly notable history or cultural significance in the traditional sense. It operates within the commercial construction industry, focusing on projects such as residential, commercial, or infrastructure development.

Independent Commission for Infrastructure

The Independent Commission for Infrastructure is not a specific historical or cultural site, but rather a type of government or public body. These commissions are typically established to oversee and manage large-scale public infrastructure projects, such as transportation networks, energy systems, or utilities. Their history is generally tied to modern governance efforts aimed at ensuring transparent, efficient, and non-political development of critical national assets.

Civil Service Commission

The Civil Service Commission is a government body responsible for overseeing the employment and management of civil servants, typically ensuring appointments are based on merit and competence rather than political patronage. Its modern form was largely established in the 19th century, with a key historical example being the United States Civil Service Commission created by the Pendleton Act of 1883 to reform the spoils system. These commissions are foundational to creating a professional, non-partisan, and efficient public administration.