DPWH to publish list of ‘ghost’, substandard projects in portal

HEADS MUST ROLL. Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Vince Dizon files cases against 20 past and current employees of the agency and some private contractors before the Office of the Ombudsman in Quezon City on Thursday (Sept. 11, 2025). He even his acquaintances, friends and allies must be held accountable once their involvement in anomalous flood control projects is proven. (PNA photo by Joan Bondoc)

By Wilnard Bacelonia, Philippine News Agency

MANILA – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is set to publish an initial list of ghost and severely substandard projects within one to two weeks through a transparency portal, as the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) takes over the filing of cases against those involved, DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon said Thursday.

Dizon told senators the online platform would be patterned after the “Isumbong Mo sa Pangulo” website to ensure accessibility for the public.

“Gusto po namin magbuo ng isang transparency portal… para mai-publish na ho natin unang-una iyong mga reported at kung anu-ano po ang mga aksyon na ginagawa ng DPWH ngayon para mapanagot ang mga dapat managot (We want to create a transparency portal… so that we can publish the reports and show the actions being taken by DPWH to hold those responsible accountable),” he said.

The portal will identify project locations, contractors, proponents, and DPWH personnel implicated in anomalous transactions.

At the same hearing, Dizon clarified that while the DPWH previously filed complaints directly with the Office of the Ombudsman, the ICI—constituted under an executive order of President Ferdinand R.

Marcos Jr.— will now file all future cases.

“From now on, the ICI will file the cases with the Ombudsman or the courts,” he said.

Dizon added initial complaints had been filed before the commission’s creation, but subsequent investigations and evidence will be endorsed to the ICI for prosecution.