By Rhianna Ramos

On Saturday, January 24, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon announced his plans to visit Visayas and Mindanao as the agency intensifies its investigation into the alleged infrastructure anomalies across the country.

The planned inspection follows reports of damaged roads and bridges that raised concerns over construction quality and accountability in several public works projects.

These issues are what prompted DPWH to strengthen oversight and pursue possible administrative cases against those involved.

Addressing the ongoing investigations, Dizon emphasized that the department remains firm in holding erring individuals accountable.

“Maraming mga kailangang ayusin sa departamento pero hindi pa rin natin bibitawan ‘yung mga ongoing investigations natin. Tuloy-tuloy ‘yan and sa mga susunod na linggo, mayro’n na rin tayong mga bagong ififile sa Office of the Ombudsman,” he said.

Moreover, the DPWH has ordered the immediate repair of damaged roads and bridges nationwide, particularly those posing risks to motorists and commuters.

Dizon also stressed the need to safeguard the department’s systems from abuse, stating, “Kailangan natin i-insulate ‘yung mga sistema from human manipulation and human intervention.”

“Kaya nga tayo may transparency portal para masigurado at mamonitor ng mga kababayan natin [ang] iba’t ibang mga proyekto,” he added.

According to the DPWH, the repairs and reforms aim to strengthen infrastructure durability, especially with the rainy season approaching, when poorly built roads and bridges are more likely to deteriorate further.

Although the agency is yet to release a detailed itinerary for Dizon’s visit as of press time, he has emphasized that the inspections are expected to focus on ensuring project quality and reinforcing public trust in government infrastructure, particularly in regions outside Metro Manila.