Pampanga: Three officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in Pampanga's Second District were relieved from their posts for allegedly demanding commissions from projects.

According to Philippines News Agency, during an interview Friday at the inspection of the Candating flood control project in Arayat, DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon disclosed that the officials, comprising a maintenance section chief and two construction section engineers, were accused of soliciting up to 8 percent in project commissions. The officials have been suspended with immediate effect as a full investigation is underway, and they will face prosecution if the allegations prove true.

Secretary Dizon emphasized that if the investigation confirms the allegations, the officials will not only face removal from their positions but also be charged. He highlighted that this action is intended to convey a strong message to DPWH officials nationwide about the government's commitment to eradicating corruption within the agency and enforcing a "one-strike" policy.

Dizon's inspection of the collapsed flood control project was part of the agency's ongoing technical assessment. Initial findings by engineers from the DPWH Bureau of Design, along with expert recommendations, suggest that constructing a retention basin to act as a water reservoir could mitigate strong currents from impacting Candating and Cupang directly.

Moreover, the DPWH plans to study the potential permanent relocation of residents and establish an appropriate distance for a no-build zone in the area. The agency is also set to investigate those responsible for the project's collapse, as it posed significant risks to residents.