MANILA — The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is moving to file criminal charges against former Bulacan 1st District Engineer Henry Alcantara after finding him guilty of grave misconduct and other administrative offenses in connection with “ghost” flood control projects in the province.
In a seven-page ruling, DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon said Alcantara was liable for approving and clearing non-existent projects in Barangay Piel in Baliwag and Barangay Perez in Bulacan despite full government payments being made.
“Respondent’s (Alcantara) failure to safeguard public interest resulting in the payment of ‘ghost’ projects tarnished the image and integrity of DPWH,” the decision stated.
Dizon said the case would be endorsed to the appropriate agencies for the filing of criminal complaints against Alcantara and other individuals linked to the irregularities. The former district engineer has been ordered to respond to the charges within three days of receipt.
On Thursday, DPWH also uncovered another questionable project in Plaridel, Bulacan, which was likewise cleared under Alcantara’s supervision.
“Ito ay isang babala sa mga opisyal at kawani ng DPWH na responsable sa mga ghost at substandard projects, dahil kagaya nga ng sinabi ni Pangulo, hindi natin hahayaan na hindi mapanagot ang mga tiwali sa pamahalaan,” Dizon said.
Dizon earlier named former assistant district engineer Brice Ericson Hernandez, construction section chief engineer Jaypee Mendoza, and accountant Juanito Mendoza among those who will also face administrative and criminal cases for their alleged involvement in the anomalous projects./PN
