The recent flood control scandal involving the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has once again laid bare the deep-seated issues of corruption and lack of transparency in our public infrastructure projects. The scandal, which has led to the deaths and arrests of several officials, is not just a tale of bureaucratic failure, it is a stark reminder of the real-world consequences of graft and mismanagement.
At the heart of the scandal is the revelation that billions of pesos meant for flood control projects were allegedly siphoned off through anomalous contracts, ghost projects, and questionable partnerships. These projects were supposed to protect communities from disasters, but instead, they left many vulnerable to floods and other calamities. The cost is not only financial. It is measured in lost trust and, tragically, in lives.
One of the most shocking developments was the death of former DPWH Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral, who was found dead near the Bued River in Benguet in December 2025. Cabral was reportedly a key figure in the controversial flood control projects and had appeared before the Independent Commission for Infrastructure. Her untimely demise has raised serious concerns about possible foul play and the risks faced by those who seek to expose corruption. The incident has sparked calls for a thorough investigation to ensure justice and to protect future whistleblowers.
Alongside Cabral’s death, eight DPWH officials from Region IV-B (Oriental Mindoro) were arrested and charged with graft and malversation in connection with the anomalous projects. These arrests, coupled with the resignation of several undersecretaries and district engineers, mark a significant shake-up within the agency. The Court of Appeals has also frozen the assets of Benguet Representative Eric Yap due to his alleged involvement in questionable infrastructure deals.
The scandal highlights the urgent need for systemic reforms in how public funds are managed and how infrastructure projects are awarded and monitored. Transparency, accountability, and citizen participation must be at the core of any solution. Open budget processes, independent oversight, and stronger whistleblower protections are essential to prevent future abuses and restore public confidence.
As citizens, we must remain vigilant and demand answers—not just for the sake of justice, but for the safety and well-being of our families and communities. The DPWH scandal is a wake-up call that corruption in public service is not merely a bureaucratic issue. It is a matter of life and death. When funds meant for flood control, roads and other vital infrastructure are diverted or misused, the consequences are felt most by those who rely on these projects for protection during disasters and daily life.
It is not enough to simply condemn corruption after the fact, we must also actively participate in building a culture of transparency and accountability. This means supporting reforms, speaking out against wrongdoing, and holding our leaders to the highest standards. Only through collective action, unwavering commitment to integrity, and the courage to ask difficult questions can we ensure that our public infrastructure truly serves the people, safeguarding lives, protecting communities, and restoring faith in the institutions meant to serve us. ||
