DPWH will not accept new project proposals until the uncompleted projects are still ongoing. This plan is effective nationwide, according to Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon.

“Kaya ngayon, sinabihan ko sila, bawal kayo mag-propose ng bago hangga’t di napopondohan yung di pa tapos,” he said

[“That’s why now, I told them, you are not allowed to propose something new until the unfinished are not yet fully funded.”]

This plan complies with the Executive directive to complete the pending projects within the prescribed timeline to ensure that the public funds are not wasted.

Hence, Sec. Dizon acknowledged the efforts of netizens in expressing their frustrations and disappointments regarding anomalies in the flood control projects. He also calls on the public to report any substandard projects they encounter.

“Ako, yung naglalabas ng social media, nagpapasalamat ako sa kanilang [lahat]. Nagpapasalamat ako kasi dapat naman talagang mainis tayong lahat pag may ganito,” he said

[“For me, those who are expressing [their sentiments] in social media, I thank them all. I am grateful because we must be frustrated with this encounter.”]

“In fact, mananawagan pa ako, kung meron pa kayong makitang unfinished, i-report niyo,” he added

[“In fact, I’ll call the attention of the public, if you encounter unfinished [projects], report to us,”]

In line with this, the agency plans to implement new reforms, particularly in planning and budgeting.

“I think ang importante is magkaroon tayo ng pagbabago sa pag-iisip tsaka dun sa sistema sa loob ng departamento and nag-uumpisa lahat yan sa planning tsaka sa budgeting,” Sec. Dizon said

[“I think the important is we must execute changes in the mindset and system within the department, and that starts from planning and budgeting.”]

With reports from Jed Nerecina