Dizon, ICI execs to meet on asset forfeiture

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is moving to forfeit the assets of personalities implicated in anomalous flood control projects, Secretary Vince Dizon said yesterday.

Dizon is set to meet today at around 10 a.m. with officials of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) to discuss the filing of civil forfeiture cases.

“This will be our second meeting to discuss when to file civil forfeiture cases against those involved so the process can begin,” Dizon told reporters in Filipino.

Asked about reports that three air assets owned by former Ako Bicol party-list congressman Zaldy Co were flown out of the country, Dizon said there was no issue since the aircraft were already covered by a freeze order.

“They cannot be sold regardless of their location and will now be subject to future forfeiture cases,” he said.

Co earlier resigned as a lawmaker after being identified as a key figure in the flood control scandal.

Internal probe launched

As part of his broader reform efforts, Dizon has also created an Internal Investigation Committee (IIC) in the DPWH to root out widespread and institutionalized corruption within the agency.

In a department order issued Oct. 29, Dizon said the formation of the IIC complies with President Marcos’ directive to cleanse the DPWH and uphold integrity and accountability in public service.

Dizon appointed Undersecretaries Ricardo Bernabe III and Nicasio Conti as chair and vice chair of the committee, respectively.

The IIC is authorized to conduct internal investigations – motu proprio or upon administrative complaint – against DPWH officials and employees.

It may issue subpoenas, take sworn statements, inspect project sites, and obtain records and information from any DPWH office.

“For this purpose, and if necessary, to also coordinate with other government agencies and law enforcement bodies to obtain any information in the process of its investigation,” Dizon decreed.

The committee is also tasked to recommend or initiate administrative, preventive, or disciplinary actions against erring officials and employees based on its findings.

“All proceedings, statements, and reports of the IIC shall be treated as strictly confidential… All concerned offices and personnel are likewise directed to extend their full cooperation and support to the Committee,” said Dizon.   – Rainier Allan Ronda