SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go has called on the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) under Secretary Vince Dizon to prioritize transparency and accountability amid growing corruption allegations in government infrastructure projects.
During the Senate deliberations on the proposed 2026 national budget on Monday, October 20, Go urged Dizon to focus on “seeking the truth” instead of following any supposed “script” that might conceal wrongdoing.
“Sec. Vince, I hope you are one with us, the Filipino people, in this crusade against corruption. Seek only the truth and do not rely on any script, if there is one,” Go said.
Expressing frustration over recurring irregularities, Go added, “You’ve expressed anger many times, and we’ve seen that. But please, jail the corrupt, the real ones.”
Go said the DPWH is now “under public scrutiny” following allegations of anomalies in flood control projects, some of which were described as substandard or even nonexistent, dubbed as “ghost projects.”
“Left and right, the department is facing criticism after revelations of irregularities, corruption, and failures in project implementation, especially in flood control,” the senator said.
While commending Dizon’s work ethic and dedication, Go stressed that accountability must be pursued at all levels.
“We support the Secretary and the DPWH during these challenging times, but I join the public in calling for accountability from everyone involved in corruption,” he added.
Go also reiterated his opposition to unprogrammed appropriations, which he said are “prone to abuse” and serve as a “semi-pork barrel.”
“It’s acceptable if used for emergencies or salaries, but once these unprogrammed appropriations are abused, I can no longer agree,” he said.
He then called for decisive action against individuals involved in ghost and failed projects. “Those behind failed and ghost projects must face the consequences.
Accountability must cut across all sectors, contractors, implementers, proponents, and legislators,” he emphasized.
Recalling the anti-corruption efforts of former President Rodrigo Duterte, Go reminded Dizon, who previously served as Presidential Adviser for Flagship Programs, of his role in promoting integrity in public service.
“I know you are aware of how rampant corruption is now. The Duterte administration wasn’t perfect, but what we see today is alarming, and the people are angry,” Go said.
He urged Dizon to take direct action: “File charges and jail the real masterminds, the real crooks. Focus on the corrupt and thieves. The public deserves the truth.”
Go concluded by expressing confidence in Dizon’s leadership while challenging him to act decisively. “I believe you will take the right path, seek the truth, and jail the corrupt. Be one with us in this crusade to fight corruption in government,” he said.