MANILA, Philippines – Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manuel Bonoan on Saturday, August 30, said he would not step down despite mounting calls for his resignation over alleged irregularities in flood control projects.
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| Photo courtesy: Facebook/DPWH |
In a video message posted on DPWH’s official Facebook page, Bonoan said resignation is not the solution and vowed to accept accountability.
He stressed that while corruption allegations are “heartbreaking and painful” under his watch, he will not tolerate or allow any wrongdoing.
“Leaving or avoiding responsibility is not the right way to find a solution. I will accept accountability. But remember, I will not tolerate or allow any kind of corruption,” he said.
“This is heartbreaking and very painful to accept that these things are happening under my watch, no matter how strict our policy against corruption.”
A Message from DPWH Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan
Posted by Department of Public Works and Highways on Friday, August 29, 2025
Bonoan confirmed the suspension of Batangas district engineer Abelardo Calalo, who was accused of attempting to bribe Batangas 1st District Rep. Leandro Leviste.
Calalo was arrested in Taal, Batangas on Aug. 22 and later released after posting ₱150,000 bail for corruption and graft charges.
To address the issue, Bonoan announced the creation of an Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Committee under Department Order No. 166 issued on August 28, 2025.
He said the panel will investigate complaints and review completed flood control projects from July 2022 to May 2025 in Central Luzon, Mimaropa, Western Visayas, Central Visayas, and Eastern Visayas.
Calls for Bonoan’s resignation intensified after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. inspected a multi-million-peso river project in Baliwag, Bulacan, which was found to be substandard.
— The Summit Express