A creation of a separate, independent task force is being considered by President Rodrigo Duterte which will be tasked with the investigation on alleged corruption within the Department of Public Works and Highways, his spokesperson said.
Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said that while an internal body within DPWH was already initiated, the executive department would also prefer an independent group to look into the matter.
“Many people doubt if it can succeed, because it’s the same people investigating one another, so we would prefer an independent body,” Roque said.
“It’s not inconceivable that another task force of the DPWH may be formed by the President, in the same way that he formed one for the PhilHealth (Philippine Health Insurance Corporation). But it really all depends on how this new task force will operate, if it is credible, if it can hold individuals accountable for their acts,” he added.
Amid rampant corruption claims against the agency, Public Works Secretary Mark Villar created the Task Force Against Graft and Corruption — composed of five officials who will probe fellow executives and employees.
DPWH Spokesperson Anna Lamentillo said the agency has been implementing reforms like tracking ghost projects and going after delinquent contractors.
“Kami naman po we are open to any anti-graft measure, but then I guess it will be Secretary Villar who can expound on this,” she said. “Kami naman po we’ve been in contact with the President, with Spokesperson Harry, so makakaasa po kayo that we’ll give you an update as soon as there is a result upon the current investigation.”
[We are open to any anti-graft measure, but then I guess it will be Secretary Villar who can expound on this. We’ve been in contact with President, with Spokesperson Harry, so you can assure that we’ll give you an update as soon as there is a result upon the current investigation.]
