DPWH Sec. Willing To Take Leave of Absence Once Audited

-Gillian Paul Abayon

Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Manuel Bonoan said that he is willing to take a leave of absence once the audit of the agency’s flood control projects which ordered by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in his fourth State of the Nation Address starts.

The Secretary made the statement as a response to Bacolod Lone District Representative Albee Benitez’ call for Bonoan to go on leave regarding the investigation.

“Out of delicadeza, and to help preserve the integrity of any inquiry, I respectfully urge the DPWH Secretary to take a leave of absence while the investigation is ongoing”. Rep. Benitez said in a post on his official Facebook page.

“This simple act of good faith will go a long way toward restoring public trust and ensuring that the process is impartial and credible”. Benitez added.

Sec. Bonoan though mentioned that he is not offended by the congressman’s call.

“Baka may pinanggagalingan naman ‘yung suggestion niya. So we’ll look into that. But I’m at the pleasure of the president”. Bonoan replied.

“Okay lang naman. I don’t know kung sino ang mag-o-audit. Okay lang. If it’s necessary, bakit hindi po”. Bonoan stated regarding the audit if the agency.

“If the president will request an additional audit, then I think pwede namang joint audit between DPWH, Commission on Audit and civil society [groups]”. He added.

Bonoan vowed to submit to the president the list of flood control projects next week 4.

“Wala naman kaming tinatago kay presidente”. Bonoan emphasized.