Batangas 1st District Representative Leandro Leviste and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon have taken decisive action to address the corruption scandal involving contractors and officials within the DPWH.
Their leadership and commitment to transparency have brought immediate reforms, signaling a shift toward a more accountable and clean government.
The flood control scandal erupted on October 16 when Leviste exposed links between several high-ranking DPWH officials and contractors, raising serious concerns about conflicts of interest. Among the key figures mentioned was Undersecretary Arrey Perez, who was allegedly involved in contractor dealings that were influencing flood control projects across the country. Leviste’s bold exposé brought to light the corrupt practices that had been diverting public funds for private gain.
In response to these revelations, two DPWH officials — an Assistant Secretary and a Director IV — were removed after being directly named by Leviste. These officials had ties to contractors, which posed a clear conflict of interest.
Secretary Vince Dizon wasted no time in confirming their removal, emphasizing that such behavior undermined the integrity of the department. Dizon acknowledged the officials’ involvement with contractors, noting that such links should not exist in government positions.
Leviste, who has long been an advocate for government transparency, acknowledged Dizon’s decisive leadership, stating, “I would like to thank Secretary Dizon for his swift action.” Dizon, in turn, praised Leviste’s efforts in bringing the issue to light, adding, “We will continue working with Leviste and other reform advocates to ensure that we maintain full transparency within the Department.”
The DPWH issued a statement confirming the removal of the officials and reaffirming its commitment to reform. “The Department affirms that the two individuals brought in by former Undersecretary Arrey Perez are no longer with the agency. We will continue working with Leviste and other reform advocates to ensure that we maintain full transparency within the Department.”
Leviste’s exposé and Dizon’s subsequent reforms have shed light on the risks posed by contractor-officials who use their positions to manipulate government budgets. These corrupt practices had resulted in the diversion of public funds away from critical infrastructure projects, particularly in flood control, towards projects that served private interests. Leviste emphasized, “When you have individuals with private interests in charge of public funds, the public suffers.”
Thanks to the actions of Leviste and Dizon, billions of pesos in public funds are now protected from misuse. Their combined efforts are a powerful example of how proactive leadership can dismantle corruption and ensure that taxpayer money is spent where it’s needed most.
Leviste’s call for continued reform resonates with the Filipino people, reinforcing the need for accountability and transparency in all government dealings. “This is about serving the people and protecting public funds,” he concluded, making it clear that the battle against corruption is far from over.
