DPWH engineers told: Accelerate infrastructure projects

MANILA, Philippines — Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manuel Bonoan has urged district engineers to speed up the implementation of infrastructure projects in response to growing public demand for quality infrastructure.

The appeal was made as President Marcos’ administration reached its midterm mark – a milestone Bonoan described as a timely opportunity to evaluate the accomplishments of the past three years.

He emphasized the urgency of accelerating national development under the “Build Better More” program, which positions the DPWH as both a key pillar of national infrastructure and a model of reform-oriented governance.

Speaking at the midyear national convention of the District Engineers League of the Philippines on May 30, Bonoan also urged engineers and public servants in the department to lead with courage, act with conviction and build with purpose in line with the administration’s Bagong Pilipinas vision.

“Bagong Pilipinas is not merely a branding slogan,” Bonoan emphasized. “It is a bold national commitment… an urgent call to transform the way we govern, the way we serve, and the way we build our country.”

Recognizing the organization as a vital yet often under-appreciated contributor to nation-building, the DPWH chief praised its members for being on the “frontlines of national development.”

He also urged the 197 District Engineering Offices across the country to uphold the highest standards of efficiency, transparency and responsiveness in delivering infrastructure projects.

“Those who embrace innovation will be the ones who shape the future of public works in the Philippines,” said Bonoan.

“This is not the time to slow down – this is the time to double down on our mission. We are at a pivotal moment – not just for DPWH, but for the entire government and the Filipino people,” he added.