In a deeper hole than imagined

A former secretary has more than the wayward and substandard projects under his term to clear up, including a possible conflict of interest involving a project of his former employer.

The expressway expansion project is a critical infrastructure initiative aimed at alleviating traffic congestion in one of the country’s busiest corridors.

However, Nosy Tarsee heard from tongues wagging at the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) that the expressway's progress took a dramatic turn following the former secretary’s replacement in September 2025.

The former official oversaw a period when, coincidence or not, the superhighway experienced accelerated development. But his ouster amid widespread corruption allegations in flood control projects cast a shadow, including rumors of misused public funds and environmental shortcuts involving mass tree cutting.

During his tenure, the expressway expansion proceeded at a brisk pace, aligning with the administration’s “Build Better More” agenda.

The concessionaire reported significant milestones, notably the opening of a new six-by-six lane configuration from Muntinlupa to Laguna by late 2024, easing holiday traffic for millions of motorists.

Full completion of the widening from Calamba to Sto. Tomas was targeted for mid-2025, with the project touted as a boost for Calabarzon’s economy, which contributes nearly 20 percent to national gross domestic product (GDP).