DPWH Central Visayas Issues Urgent Warning Against Scammers Using Director's Name
The Department of Public Works and Highways in Central Visayas (DPWH 7) has issued a critical public advisory regarding fraudulent activities targeting contractors and business owners. Regional officials are raising alarms about unauthorized individuals who are exploiting the name of the newly appointed office head to solicit money and negotiate illegitimate business transactions.
Name Misused in Illegal Solicitations and Fake Deals
In an official statement released on Monday, January 26, 2026, Officer-in-Charge Director Simon Arias disclosed that his name has been improperly used in reports of fake solicitations and unauthorized project negotiations. Arias, who recently assumed leadership of the regional office, emphasized that he has absolutely no connection to these fraudulent activities.
The director made it explicitly clear that he has not authorized any person, group, or organization to collect money or make deals on his behalf or for the DPWH Regional Office 7. This public advisory serves as an official denial of any involvement in these reported scams.
Zero-Tolerance Policy Against Corruption
Director Arias was unequivocal in his rejection of any wrongdoing or "under-the-table" arrangements. "I do not solicit, demand, nor accept any form of commission, 'SOP,' share, or consideration in relation to infrastructure projects or any government undertaking," Arias stated firmly in the advisory.
He further explained that all DPWH programs and projects must strictly adhere to established laws and regulations. Official contracts and infrastructure projects are exclusively handled through legitimate government offices that undergo regular audits and maintain complete transparency for public scrutiny.
Cleaning Up the Agency During Transition Period
This warning emerges during a particularly sensitive period for the department's regional operations. On January 12, 2026, DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon announced that the former regional director, Danilo Villa, along with seven other officials, had been relieved of their duties pending a comprehensive investigation.
Before his removal from office, Villa was among ten officials questioned about allegations concerning "lavish lifestyles" and potential involvement in irregular infrastructure projects. The current advisory appears to be part of broader efforts to restore integrity and public trust in the agency's operations.
Protecting Contractors and Business Owners
The DPWH 7 office is strongly urging contractors, suppliers, and business owners to exercise extreme caution when approached by individuals claiming special influence or access to DPWH officials. Engaging with such persons represents not only significant financial risk but also potential legal consequences.
The agency has warned that participation in these fraudulent schemes could result in serious administrative, civil, or criminal charges. This advisory has been issued specifically to prevent further fraud attempts and safeguard the office's integrity as it moves forward under new leadership.
Key precautions recommended by DPWH 7 include:
- Verifying all communications through official DPWH channels
- Reporting suspicious approaches to proper authorities
- Conducting transactions only at designated government offices
- Maintaining documentation of all official business dealings
The department emphasizes that legitimate DPWH operations follow transparent procedures and do not involve unofficial intermediaries requesting payments or special arrangements outside established government protocols.
