NATION

Tarlac District Engineer among four facing corruption allegations

Jonas Reyes · Nov 9, 2026, 9:15 PM

OUTGOING Public Works Secretary and returning Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon (left) hands over files on Department of Public Works and Highways officials under investigation to incoming DPWH Secretary Giovanni Lopez during a joint press conference in Manila on Tuesday. — Photograph by Toto Lozano for DAILY TRIBUNE

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Giovanni Lopez has relieved four district engineering officials from their posts over alleged involvement in corruption and other irregularities.

Lopez said Tarlac 1st District Engineer Hermon Ines and Cotabato 3rd District Engineering Office Engineer Saidale Mitmug were removed from their positions over alleged corruption.

He also relieved Apayao 2nd District Engineering Office OIC District Engineer Clifton Valencerina over allegations of collecting “SOP” (standard operating procedure) payments from projects, and Lanao del Norte 2nd District Engineering Office District Engineer Amron Mitmug for allegedly certifying an unimplementable project.

Lopez said the relief orders are in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to remove officials and employees involved in illegal activities as part of the agency's broader reform program.

He added that the “one-strike policy” implemented by former DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon will remain in effect, with the agency immediately investigating personnel involved in questionable activities.

Lopez assured that no one would be spared in the government's campaign against corruption.