Manila: Eight local officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) have been relieved from their posts pending investigation. DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon announced the decision during a media briefing, stating that the officials, including four regional directors, two assistant regional directors, and two district engineers, have been temporarily removed from their positions as part of an ongoing investigation.
According to Philippine News Agency, the regional directors ordered relieved include Ronnel M. Tan from Region 1, Jovel G. Mendoza from Region 4A, Virgilio C. Eduardo from Region 5, and Danilo J. Villa from Region 7. The assistant regional directors are Neil C. Farala from Region 4-B and Annie S. Dela Vega from Region 5. The district engineers relieved are Ruel V. Umali from the Metro Manila 3rd District Engineering Office and Manny B. Bulusan from the South Manila District Engineering Office.
Secretary Dizon stated that the reasons for the investigation cannot be fully disclosed but emphasized that the department is scrutinizing numerous officials. "This is the initial batch of officials that have been relieved," Dizon mentioned, highlighting that this action signifies the beginning of a broader investigative process.
In addition, three other local officials have been relieved for not meeting the qualifications set by the Civil Service Commission. These officials are officer-in-charge District Engineers Sherylann Gonzales from La Union 1st District Engineering Office, Roy Pacanan from Iloilo City District Engineering Office, and Peter Scheller Soco from Leyte 4th District Engineering Office.
In a related development, Secretary Dizon is scheduled to testify in the Sandiganbayan trial concerning the flood control case against former lawmaker Zaldy Co on January 20. Dizon expressed uncertainty about whether the trial would be open to the public but confirmed his participation as a witness. "Since I am the complainant in many of these cases, you will see me testifying in many cases in the coming weeks, months; it is part of the process of holding those who should be held accountable," Dizon remarked, indicating his involvement in forthcoming judicial proceedings.
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