DPWH suspends applications for officials' personal trips abroad for 3 months amid flood control probe
The Department of Public Works and Highways has ordered a temporary suspension of applications for authority to travel abroad for personal reasons. This comes amid the ongoing probe into flood control projects.
"In light of the ongoing validation of DPWH projects and in line with our commitment to transparency, accountability, and public service integrity, approval of all applications for Authority to Travel abroad for Personal reasons are hereby temporarily suspended," a memorandum signed by DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan and dated Aug. 29 stated.
Personal travel for urgent medical reasons is exempted.
The suspension is effective immediately until the end of November 2025, or unless circumstances warrant earlier lifting of the suspension or further extension.
According to the memo, this order aligns with the Civil Service Commission's Omnibus Rules on Leave, which state that approval of vacation leave is subject to the exigencies or demands of the service.
It also said that travel authority for personal travel is discretionary and not automatic and that the agency has the authority to regulate the foreign travel of its employees where public interest, operational requirements, or administrative concerns warrant it.
During his fourth State of the Nation Address, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called out government officials who allegedly commit corruption, particularly in flood control projects, in light of heavy rains and flooding in July.
"Kitang-kita ko na maraming proyekto sa flood control ay palpak," he said. "At 'yung iba, guniguni lang. Huwag na tayo magkunwari, alam naman ng buong madla na nagkakaraket sa mga proyekto."
"Mahiya naman kayo sa mga kabahayan nating naanod o nalubog sa mga pagbaha. Mahiya naman kayo lalo sa mga anak natin na magmamana sa mga utang na ginawa ninyo nang ibinulsa niyo lang ang pera."
On Aug. 27, Marcos ordered a comprehensive lifestyle check for all government officials, starting with those involved in the anomalous flood control projects.
Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Atty. Claire Castro said that the investigation will likely start with DPWH officials.
Meanwhile, the Bureau of Internal Revenue has also begun a probe into contractors linked to the DPWH's flood control projects.
