President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has accepted the resignation of Public Works and Highways Secretary Manuel Bonoan effective Sept. 1, Malacañang announced Sunday, August 31.
In his resignation letter, Bonoan expressed support for the administration’s push for “accountability, transparency and reform” amid ongoing investigations into anomalous flood control projects.
Bacolod Rep. Alfredo Abelardo Benitez, who has earlier called on Bonoan to resign, said “It’s about time”.
“Given the issues surrounding the DPWH, Secretary Bonoan’s resignation will provide space for proper inquiries to proceed and help pave the way for restoring public trust in the agency, and it is consistent with his expressed support for accountability, transparency, and reform,” Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson said.
“These processes must be carried out thoroughly so that the DPWH can move forward with renewed integrity and continue to serve the best interests of the Filipino people,” he said.
Marcos appointed Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon as the new DPWH chief, according to a Palace news release.
Dizon has been directed to conduct a full organizational sweep and ensure public funds are used solely for infrastructure that protects and benefits Filipinos.
Lacson welcomed the appointment of Dizon as the new DPWH chief. He looks forward to the continuity of vital infrastructure programs that serve the public interest, the governor said.
The day before, the DPWH posted a taped video message of Bonoan, who said giving up his position is not the answer to the controversies hounding the department.
“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.”
Meanwhile, lawyer Giovanni Lopez has been named acting Secretary of the Department of Transportation to guarantee continuity in transport modernization programs.
Lopez, the Undersecretary for Administration, Finance, and Procurement since February, previously held senior posts overseeing railway, aviation and maritime projects.
Marcos also ordered the creation of an independent body to investigate flood control anomalies, which will review projects, identify irregularities, and recommend accountability measures.
“These decisions reflect the administration’s firm resolve to clean up corruption, strengthen institutions, and deliver honest and effective public service under Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines),” the Palace said.*PNA