Singson to join DPWH in project assessment

Rogelio Singson will return to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), which is “close to my heart,” after his three-month stint with the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) that ended yesterday.

- By EJ MACABABBAD

“No more extensions. I won't be here tomorrow as I have other places to go,” a visibly amused Singson told reporters.

Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon confirmed Singson’s impending return as part of a group of experts assessing future flood control projects.

At his solo press conference two weeks ago, Singson said he had always made himself available to help the agency, which he led from 2010 to 2016, in whatever capacity.

“Ever since, DPWH has been close to my heart,” Singson said.

“Any sitting official of DPWH, I’ve always been open to giving advice, especially so because, if you recall, when I was targeted to become secretary again, fortunately, we convinced Vince Dizon.

So, in fairness to him, I want to help him as much as I can,” he added.

Singson reported for his ICI work for the last time, participating at dual hearings featuring AGAP party-list Rep. Nicanor Briones and officials from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).

The former DPWH chief quietly notified the President of his resignation in mid-November but did not receive a reply. He had said he was leaving the ICI after experiencing health complications due to the stress of investigating thousands of anomalous projects.

Meanwhile, ICI commissioner Rossana Fajardo is still mum on rumors of her resignation.

Fajardo, the country managing partner at SyCip Gorres Velayo & Co., was entering the back portion of the ICI office yesterday when she was asked by GMA Integrated News if there was truth to rumors of her departure. The SGV official simply waved and smiled.

Reporters then asked confirmation from ICI chairman Andres Reyes Jr. who replied, “No comment for now.”