THE Senate Blue Ribbon Committee on Monday excused Manuel Bonoan from participating in its hearing on questionable flood control projects after his resignation as secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
Bonoan, who was present during the committee’s second hearing, made a manifestation after Chairperson Sen. Rodante Marcoleta asked if he wanted to beg off from the proceedings, since President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. had already accepted his resignation.
“In view of this circumstance, Your Honor, that effective today, September 1, since I am no longer the secretary of Public Works and Highways and I don’t have the official capacity to represent the department, that I may be excused on the proceedings at this point in time,” Bonoan said.
Marcoleta granted the request but asked whether someone had been designated to represent the DPWH in the inquiry. Bonoan assured that all officials invited from the department were present.
Malacañang announced Bonoan’s resignation on Sunday, with Marcos later explaining he accepted it on the grounds of command responsibility. Vince Dizon, former transportation secretary, has been appointed as his replacement.