Marcos to new DPWH chief Dizon: Root out corruption, ghost projects

NEW DPWH CHIEF. Vincez with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in Malacañang. (Photo: Bongbong Marcos/Facebook)

By Darryl John Esguerra, Joann S. Villanueva, Philippine News Agency

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday administered the oath of office to Vince Dizon as the new secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), directing him to root out corruption and end “ghost projects” in the agency.

“His mission is to clean up corruption, end ghost projects and ensure every peso spent truly protects and serves our people,” Marcos said in a social media post.

“Bagong Pilipinas means infrastructure that is safe, future-ready and built with integrity. That is what our people deserve, and that is what we will deliver.”

Dizon replaces Manuel Bonoan, who resigned effective Sept. 1 to take responsibility over alleged anomalies in multibillion-peso flood control projects under his watch.

Marcos earlier said Bonoan stepped down under the principle of “command responsibility,” while an independent commission will be created through an executive order to probe the irregularities.

Dizon, who previously served as Presidential Adviser on Flagship Programs and Projects and more recently as Transportation Secretary, played a key role in implementing infrastructure under the Duterte administration’s Build, Build, Build program.

He was also a prominent figure in the government’s Covid-19 pandemic response.

Marcos expressed confidence that Dizon’s management skills and track record in large-scale infrastructure development will help restore integrity and efficiency in DPWH operations.

Undersecretary Giovanni Lopez will replace Dizon as Transportation chief. He also took his oath at the Palace as acting Secretary.

Biz support

The Federation of Philippine Industry (FPI) supports Dizon’s appointment and is looking forward “in pushing for higher standards, transparent procurement, and resilient public infrastructure.”

It said Dizon’s stint at the DOTr “was marked by accelerated infrastructure delivery, modernization of commuter systems through cashless integration, and swift enforcement of safety reforms —demonstrating a results-driven leadership style that prioritizes action over rhetoric.”

“This is precisely the kind of governance needed to restore integrity and accountability in DPWH, especially in light of recent anomalies in flood control projects,” it said.

“We look forward to working with Secretary Dizon in advancing higher technical standards, transparent procurement systems, and a public infrastructure program that is resilient, inclusive, and built on trust. The way forward must include independent monitoring, digital traceability, and full public disclosure of project specifications and supplier compliance —so that every structure built reflects not just progress, but integrity.”