DPWH told to build more health centers, classrooms

MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Bong Go has asked the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to prioritize the construction of evacuation centers, health facilities like Super Health Centers and classrooms unlike in past years when massive funding was put into flood control projects that were reportedly riddled with corruption and anomalies.

“We should ensure that the budget of the DPWH reflects the genuine need for infrastructure,” Go said during his interpellation on the DPWH 2026 budget in the Senate this week.

He added that infrastructure projects should be worthy and beneficial to those in the disaster-stricken areas.

Go cited the construction of evacuation centers which should have been prioritized, since it is mandated by law. 

The senator was referring to Republic Act No. 12076, or the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act, which he principally authored and co-sponsored, mandating the construction of permanent evacuation centers in all municipalities and cities.

He also pointed out that if the flood control budget was not wasted, about 60,000 evacuation centers could have been built.

Go likewise reminded the DPWH to help the health department resolve issues in making Super Health Centers operational: “Please make it operational (and not make it) white elephant.” 

The Super Health Centers, which Go has continuously advocated for, serve as a middle ground between a polyclinic and a rural health unit. They offer a range of services including laboratory testing, birthing facilities, outpatient care, dental services and a pharmacy. To date, over 700 Super Health Centers have been funded nationwide.

Go also aired his concern over insufficient or damaged classrooms, especially in far-flung areas, which he personally witnessed during his visits to many parts of the country.

To date, the Senate plenary interpellation of the 2026 DPWH budget revealed that it has only built 60 classrooms out of the 5,300 target.

The senator then asked the DPWH to just do what is right and prioritize public interest and put an end to wastage of public funds.