DPWH finds ex-Bulacan district engineer guilty of irregularities

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has found former Bulacan First District Engineer Henry Alcantara guilty of irregularities over "ghost" flood control projects in the province.

- TRIXEE ROSEL

In a seven-page decision released on Friday, Sept. 5, DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon ruled that Alcantara committed disloyalty to the Republic and the Filipino people, grave misconduct, gross neglect of duty, and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service.

The ruling stemmed from Alcantara's admission before the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee that he approved non-existent projects that prompted the government to make full payments.

"Respondent's failure to safeguard public interest, resulting in the payment of 'ghost' projects, tarnished the image and integrity of DPWH," the decision read.

Dizon said the ruling was in line with President Marcos' directive to hold accountable officials involved in anomalous public works projects.

"This serves as a warning to all DPWH officials and employees responsible for ghost and substandard projects, because, as the President said, we will not allow corrupt government personnel to go unpunished," Dizon said. "Following this, we will recommend to the appropriate offices the filing of criminal charges against Engineer Alcantara and other individuals involved to ensure justice for their blatant abuse of public funds."