MANILA (August 31) – Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manuel Bonoan on Saturday said he will not resign despite mounting calls for him to step down over alleged irregularities in flood control projects.
In a video message posted on the official DPWH Facebook page, Bonoan said resignation is not the solution, stressing that he is ready to take full responsibility for issues confronting the department.
“Leaving or avoiding responsibility is not the right way to find a solution. I will accept accountability. But remember, I will not tolerate or allow any kind of corruption,” he said. “This is heartbreaking and very painful to accept that these things are happening under my watch, no matter how strict our policy against corruption.”
Bonoan confirmed the suspension of Batangas District Engineer Abelardo Calalo, who was arrested on August 22 in Taal, Batangas for allegedly attempting to bribe Batangas 1st District Rep. Leandro Leviste. Calalo was released after posting bail of PHP60,000 for alleged violation of Article 212 of the Revised Penal Code and PHP90,000 for alleged violation of Republic Act 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.
To address corruption concerns, Bonoan announced the creation of an Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Committee under Department Order No. 166 dated August 28, 2025. The body will investigate alleged corrupt practices involving DPWH officials and employees.
He also revealed that validation efforts are ongoing for flood control projects completed between July 2022 and May 2025 in Central Luzon, Mimaropa, Western Visayas, Central Visayas, and Eastern Visayas.
Calls for Bonoan’s resignation intensified after President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. inspected a multi-million-peso river project in Baliwag, Bulacan, which was found to be substandard.
