Manila: Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon has taken decisive action by relieving two district engineers in Pampanga from their positions. This decision follows their alleged failure to implement vital road safety measures along a highway in Angeles City, which resulted in the tragic death of a man who fell into an open manhole.
According to Philippines News Agency, Dizon issued a memorandum addressing Pampanga 3rd officer-in-charge district engineer Aser Mallari and OIC Assistant District Engineer Augustin Dagsaan Jr. The memorandum cited their failure to comply with the required safety standards, among other infractions, as the reason for their dismissal from their duties. The order, released on Sunday night, emphasized the immediate effect of their relief from their posts.
Furthermore, Dizon instructed the relieved officials to conduct an inventory, complete all pending tasks, and formally hand over all official documents to the appropriate office. This measure aims to ensure the continuous and uninterrupted delivery of public services in the area.
The incident that led to this administrative action involved the victim, Reiner Novero, who tragically lost his life after falling into a flooded, open drainage canal along Fil-Am Friendship Highway in Barangay Cutcut, Angeles City on August 28. The unfortunate event was captured by a closed-circuit television camera and subsequently went viral on social media, drawing widespread attention and concern.
