Manila: The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is taking significant measures to ensure the integrity and transparency of its new leadership. Secretary Vince Dizon has formally requested the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and several private organizations to conduct comprehensive background checks on 14 newly appointed officials of the agency.

According to Philippines News Agency, Secretary Dizon reached out to the NBI, Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD), Management Association of the Philippines (MAP), and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) through written communication. The objective is to implement independent vetting to maintain the highest standards of transparency and accountability.

The officials subject to this vetting process include Senior Undersecretary Emil Sadain, multiple Undersecretaries, and several Assistant Secretaries. Dizon underscored the importance of this initiative in ensuring that transparency governs not only infrastructure projects but also the selection of those who manage them.

This move aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive for reforms in the DPWH, emphasizing the need for incorruptible and sincere public servants. Dizon reiterated the President’s stance that the DPWH should undergo a thorough cleaning process to uphold its credibility.

In a related development, Secretary Dizon has signed memorandums of agreement with the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) and the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC). These agreements aim to reclaim funds tied to government projects and address financial irregularities involving former DPWH officials.

The partnership with the AMLC focuses on financial examination and investigation of anomalous transactions, with PHP5.2 billion in assets already frozen. The PCC agreement seeks to ensure fair contractor selection and expedite legal proceedings against those involved in fraudulent bidding practices.

In the wake of these developments, Alyansa ng Bantay sa Kapayapaan at Demokrasya (ABKD) Chairperson Emeritus Dr. Jose Antonio Goitia has called for fairness amid allegations against First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos regarding flood control project irregularities. Goitia emphasized the importance of evidence-based accusations and warned against turning investigations into speculative ventures.