MANILA, Philippines – Following the flood control scandal that exposed alleged ghost projects and overpriced contracts, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is under intense public scrutiny.
With Vince Dizon’s appointment as DPWH Secretary, advocates say the agency now has a rare chance to turn crisis into reform. But beyond technical competence, the challenge is restoring integrity, accountability, and trust.
Independent health reform advocate Dr. Tony Leachon said the agency must undergo both symbolic and structural change, starting with a leadership reset.
“The storm revealed the rot. Now let the sunlight do its work,” Leachon stressed.
Among his proposals are courtesy resignations of top officials, a DPWH Values Charter to enshrine merit-based service, and a Flood Control Performance Scorecard published quarterly for transparency.
Leachon also underscored the importance of empowering local governments to co-lead flood control projects and shifting DPWH strategies from reactive drainage fixes to climate-resilient solutions such as retention basins and nature-based infrastructure.
“This is not just a change in leadership. It is a change in culture. We must build not just roads and drainage—but trust, dignity, and a future worthy of our children,” he added.