Independent Commission Denounces Document Tampering in Flood Control Investigations

The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) publicly condemned reports of extensive document destruction and manipulation by personnel within the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) concerning irregularities in flood control projects.

Retired Supreme Court Associate Justice Andres B. Reyes Jr., chairman of the ICI, described these actions as "a blatant obstruction of ongoing investigations but also a direct assault on the public's right to transparency and accountability."

Reyes emphasized, "The deliberate concealment or alteration of records undermines the rule of law and weakens the people's trust in government institutions tasked to safeguard public resources."

He further warned that any individuals found guilty of destroying, falsifying, or concealing records related to public works projects could face both administrative and criminal charges.

"The Commission calls upon all DPWH officials and employees to fully cooperate and preserve the integrity of all documents and evidence under their custody," Reyes added.

DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon confirmed the tampering incident following a report from ICI special adviser Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong. Dizon revealed that a formal charge has been filed against Rene Zarate, a district engineer in Baguio City, who has since been suspended for 90 days.

In response, Dizon issued a memorandum instructing all DPWH offices—central, regional, and district—to safeguard and submit all documents related not only to flood control but to infrastructure projects conducted over the past decade to the ICI. He cautioned that failure to comply would result in charges and suspension orders.

On the same day, the ICI met with Senate President Vicente "Tito" Sotto III and Senate Blue Ribbon Committee Chair Senator Panfilo Lacson in relation to the Senate’s ongoing investigation into the nation’s flood control initiatives, underscoring the gravity of the situation.