By the Asian Consulting Group
Shocking allegations of corruption within public works and highways (DPWH) have once again put the agency under strict public scrutiny. From ghost flood control projects to overpriced contracts and luxury lifestyles for public officials, the latest revelations suggest that systemic decay may be much deeper than previously thought.
Senator Panfilo M. Lacson recently revealed how massive kickbacks continue to plague the DPWH project, claiming up to 60% of public funds used in infrastructure lost corruption. This means that in a 100 million pesos plan, only 40 million pesos are actually used for construction, while the rest disappears into the pockets of intermediaries, contractors and politicians.
This practice not only consumes public inventory, but also leaves communities vulnerable to flooding and poorly constructed infrastructure, putting lives at risk.
In Bulacan, multiple flood control projects were found to be unqualified or completely non-existent. Regional engineers allegedly used Shell and Ghost Contractors to win bids and channel funds. Violations of procurement laws and public trust. The situation worsened so severely that Senator Laxon described the DPWH as “a playground for the group.”
The DPWH engineer was reportedly arrested after bribing hundreds of millions of bribes to stop the Congressional investigation, perhaps the most blatant example. This incident made it clear that corruption within the institution was not only lasting, but also bold.
In response, Marcos (Jr.) ordered an exhaustive investigative and guiding body such as the Board of Audit (COA), the Internal Revenue Agency (BIR) and the Customs Office (BOC). The luxury cars and extravagant lifestyles displayed by some engineers have raised legal doubts about undeclared income and illegal abundance.
However, lifestyle examinations must not only show political will. They must lead to specific actions. If proven guilty, a person involved in corruption must not only face criminal charges, but must also be permanently removed from public office. It is impossible for the government to use public funds in the government for the benefit of the individual. Anything less will undermine the rule of law and make the culture of impunity.
This question goes beyond money. Every peso lost by corruption is a peso stolen from flood control, education, health care and community resilience. When infrastructure designed to maintain life becomes a source of individual wealth, public safety becomes collateral damage.
It’s not only about exposing wrongdoing, it also involves rebuilding trust. First make sure those who sell out never have the chance to do it again.
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