DPWH Mandates Re-inspection of Flood Control Projects Over Coordinate Errors
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has announced a critical need to restart inspections on flood control projects spanning from 2016 to 2025. This decision comes after the discovery of allegedly incorrect grid coordinates used during the validation process, raising concerns about project integrity and accountability.
Widespread Impact and Ghost Project Findings
According to DPWH Undersecretary Arthur Bisnar, a total of 10,238 flood control projects have already been inspected by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP). Out of these, a staggering 252 projects were declared non-existent or labeled as ghost projects. The agency now insists that these projects must undergo a thorough re-validation to ensure accuracy and transparency in public infrastructure reporting.
Senate Inquiry and Coordinate Discrepancies
The issue gained prominence following a Senate hearing where Senate President Pro Tempore and Blue Ribbon Committee Chair Panfilo Ping Lacson disclosed receiving reports of erroneous coordinates. It was revealed that former DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan had submitted incorrect grid coordinates to Malacañang for the Sumbong sa Pangulo website. During the hearing, DPWH officials explained that the coordinates provided to the Office of the President differed significantly from those documented in the actual project contracts, highlighting a major inconsistency in data management.
Implications for Infrastructure and Public Trust
This revelation underscores potential flaws in the monitoring and validation systems for government infrastructure projects. The re-inspection initiative aims to:
- Correct inaccurate project records and ensure proper documentation.
- Enhance transparency and accountability in flood control efforts.
- Prevent future occurrences of ghost or non-existent projects.
As the DPWH moves forward with this re-validation process, stakeholders are closely watching to see how these measures will impact the effectiveness of flood control programs and restore public confidence in government projects.
