A fierce denial erupted after accusations surfaced alleging budget manipulation for flood control projects. Representative Leandro Antonio Leviste claimed Secretary Vivencio Dizon, formerly of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), directed funds towards these projects through questionable insertions.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) swiftly countered, branding Leviste’s claims as “baseless and malicious.” They asserted that the BCDA had already issued a firm statement confirming no flood control projects were funded through such means, emphasizing the absence of “allocable funds” for this purpose.
The BCDA reinforced this stance, stating unequivocally that no discretionary funds were utilized for flood control initiatives. All projects, they declared, were financed solely through approved government programs, with complete and auditable records available for scrutiny.
BCDA officials highlighted a commitment to transparency and accountability, emphasizing strict legal compliance, multi-layered audits, and standardized procedures designed to minimize opportunities for corruption. They welcomed fact-based investigations and oversight from relevant institutions.
The DPWH also questioned the timing of Leviste’s allegations, pointing to recent reports involving accusations against the lawmaker himself – specifically, allegations of forcefully obtaining files from the late Undersecretary Catalina Cabral. This raised suspicions about the motives behind the accusations.
Leviste responded by urging investigators to examine Dizon’s connections to various contractors, particularly Lourel Development Corporation. This company was a sub-contractor for the massive P11.5-billion New Clark City Project and had previously been flagged by the Commission on Audit for bypassing public bidding procedures.
He revealed that Lourel Development Corporation is linked to the family of a Party-list representative currently under DPWH investigation. Leviste further stated that this representative had met with Dizon in New Clark City, a meeting arranged by a DPWH undersecretary while Dizon was still Transportation Secretary.
Leviste stressed he wasn’t drawing conclusions, but believed the public deserved full disclosure regarding any potential conflicts of interest involving those investigating the flood control projects and those currently under scrutiny. He indicated receiving crucial information from DPWH whistleblowers concerning the agency’s leadership and the upcoming 2026 national budget.
The unfolding situation paints a picture of escalating tensions and accusations, with both sides demanding transparency and accountability. The core of the dispute centers on the funding and oversight of critical flood control projects and the potential for improper influence.
