Las Piñas-Muntinlupa DPWH official relieved over delayed calamity response

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon has relieved the maintenance chief of the Las Piñas–Muntinlupa District Engineering Office (LMDEO) over alleged slow disaster response and neglect of duty.

In a memorandum dated August 29, Dizon cited Loreto Balena Jr.'s “unsatisfactory performance, lack of urgency, and delayed response to calamities” as grounds for his relief.

“To ensure the uninterrupted delivery of public service, you are directed to conduct an inventory, accomplish, complete, and sign all pending documents and deliverables, and formally turn over all official records, papers, and properties in your custody to the appropriate office,” the memorandum read.

GMA News Online has reached out to Balena for his comment and will update this story once a response is received.

Metro Manila was among the areas affected by heavy southwest monsoon or Habagat rains on Saturday, with flooding reported in several areas.

Although it was not cited as a reason for Balena’s relief, Las Piñas experienced flooding in recent days, including at Zapote Junction, where floodwaters rendered the area impassable.

This prompted the DPWH to deploy flood-mitigation equipment in the city, including mobile pumps, to address rising water levels in the area.

Monsoon rains are expected to continue over parts of Luzon on Sunday, according to the state weather bureau PAGASA.

In its 4 a.m. public weather forecast, PAGASA said monsoon rains were expected over Ilocos Sur, Pangasinan, La Union, Benguet, Bataan, Zambales, Tarlac, and Pampanga.— MCG, GMA News