Muntinlupa DPWH district engineer axed

Secretary Manuel Bonoan of the Department of Public Works and Highways has "reassigned" district engineer Isabelo Baleros of Muntinlupa City and Las Piñas to the DPWH Metro Manila third district engineering office amid graft allegations.

- DELON PORCALLA

Ruel Umali will replace Baleros as chief of the Las Piñas-Muntinlupa District Engineering Office.

"Under and by virtue of this order, engineer Umali is directed to perform the duties and assume the responsibilities appurtenant to the position of District Engineer," read the memorandum order signed by Bonoan.

The move came just two weeks after Las Piñas Rep. Mark Anthony Santos urged Bonoan to remove Baleros over his alleged involvement in questionable transactions, including a controversial transfer of flood control funds.

Bonoan has vowed to hold accountable DPWH officers and personnel found responsible for substandard or "ghost" flood control projects, stressing that appropriate criminal charges will be filed.

Magalong invited to House hearing

Meanwhile, House Deputy Speaker and Zambales 1st district Rep. Jay Khonghun called on Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong to appear before the House of Representatives and present proof of his allegations on flood control anomalies.

"We will only take him seriously if his allegations on flood control anomalies are placed on the record, supported by documents and tested under questioning. That means naming names in the hearing, submitting contracts and fund flows, and swearing to the facts so accountability can follow," he said.