Leviste files raps against DPWH district engineer over bribery attempt

Batangas 1st District Rep. Leandro Leviste filed a formal complaint against a Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) district engineer for alleged bribery on Tuesday, Aug. 26, at the Hall of Justice here.

- BY DANNY ESTACIO

The neophyte solon filed cases of direct bribery, corruption of public officials, graft and corruption, and violating the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials against Engineer Abelardo Calalo, head of Batangas 1st Engineering District Office, before the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor.

Leviste urged Calalo and other current or former DPWH employees or contractors to turn state witnesses to hold those who allegedly benefited from this system of corruption accountable.

"Because I will never accept kickbacks, I will insist that all projects in the First District of Batangas be implemented properly. We will continue auditing all DPWH projects in the district, not just flood control projects, and ensure that any defective work is corrected without additional cost to the government," he said.

In his sworn statement, Leviste said Calalo explained that contractors were willing to give him five to 10 percent of the P3.6 billion in district projects, equivalent to P180 million to P360 million, to support his educational programs.

Leviste said one contractor was prepared to withdraw an initial P15 million while the P3.1 million presented by Calalo represented three percent of a P104-million project, with receipts included in the cash provided.