Dizon names Bernabe as DPWH spox for legal matters

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has designated Undersecretary Rico Bernabe as its official spokesperson for legal matters, DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon announced Monday.

Dizon said Bernabe's formal designation will be issued in the coming days.

"From now on, for legal issues and concerns of the department, we will be appointing an official spokesperson for all legal questions and matters for DPWH. That will be Undersecretary Rico Bernabe," Dizon said at a press conference.

He added that the move aims to streamline and centralize the department’s responses to legal matters, particularly amid several ongoing investigations.

Bernabe will address issues involving both internal and external probes, including investigations concerning DPWH officials, cases before the Office of the Ombudsman, and matters involving other agencies such as the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI).

Bernabe, a lawyer, is among several experts and officials brought in by Dizon in 2025 as part of efforts to reform the department amid allegations of widespread corruption.

Before joining the DPWH, Bernabe served as a commissioner of the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM), 

He also worked as Undersecretary for Strategic Action and Response at the Office of the Executive Secretary, where he oversaw the Presidential Complaint Center and the 8888 Citizens’ Complaint Center.

Bernabe also served as an ex-officio board member of the Career Executive Service Board and worked in the private sector as an associate general counsel at San Miguel Corporation.—MCG, GMA Integrated News