DPWH-NCR director told to explain out-of-order pumping station in Tondo

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon has issued a show-cause order against DPWH-National Capital Region director Gerard Opulencia to explain the alleged irregularities in the Sunog Apog Pumping Station in Tondo, Manila. 

In a memorandum, among the irregularities that the DPWH flagged in the flood control project are being inoperative since completion in 2020; residents reporting exacerbated flooding due to the infrastructure; and the lack of a building permit and power connection. 

The pumping station is also flagged for the additional P94 million funding to upgrade the project, with further proposals for an additional P200 million, despite the unresolved defects.

The agency is also seeking an explanation for the lack of coordination with the city government of Manila in the planning and implementation of the project. 

“These circumstances, if left unexplained, may constitute gross neglect of duty, grave misconduct, inefficiency, and/or conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service, in violation of civil service laws, rules, and regulations,” the memorandum read.

Opulencia is directed to submit within five days, from receipt of the show-cause order, his written explanation as to why no administrative disciplinary action should be taken against him. 

The DPWH also issued a show-cause order against the District Engineer of the North Manila District Engineering Office to explain the irregularities in the said pumping station. 

Dizon earlier ordered to stop the repairs on the Sunog Apog Pumping Station, which has been inoperative for five years. 

“Papahinto ko muna ‘yan tapos ipapa-asses ko muna ito. Baka kasi nagtatapon na naman tayo ng P100 milyon dito,” the DPWH chief told reporters. 

(I'll have that stopped first to have it assessed. We might be throwing away another P100 million here.)  –NB, GMA Integrated News