MANILA — Public Works and Highways Secretary Vince Dizon has appointed engineer Lara Marisse Esquibil as Officer-in-Charge (OIC) Undersecretary for Convergence Projects and Technical Services of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). The announcement was made during the agency’s flag-raising ceremony on Monday, October 20, 2025.

Esquibil succeeds Arrey Perez, who recently resigned amid scrutiny over alleged connections with private contractors involved in government infrastructure projects. Dizon emphasized that Esquibil’s appointment comes at a crucial time as the department intensifies reforms to ensure transparency and accountability in public works implementation.

The DPWH chief described Esquibil as a “young, dynamic, and professional” leader, expressing full trust and confidence in her capability to oversee major technical and convergence projects. He added that Esquibil’s technical background and commitment to service align with the administration’s goal of strengthening the “Build Better More” infrastructure program.

Prior to her appointment, Esquibil headed the DPWH Bureau of Design, where she supervised the planning and evaluation of national infrastructure projects. She is also among the pioneering members of the department’s Cadet Engineering Program and was endorsed by former DPWH Secretaries Rogelio Singson and Jose De Jesus for the undersecretary post.

Dizon also highlighted the ongoing reforms within the department, including the filling of around 2,000 vacant positions and addressing reported salary delays among rank-and-file employees. He stressed that these efforts aim to improve efficiency, morale, and project delivery within the agency.

With Esquibil now leading the Convergence Projects and Technical Services Office, the DPWH aims to accelerate its infrastructure rollout nationwide. The agency seeks stronger coordination with other government bodies and enhanced oversight to ensure timely completion and quality of public infrastructure across the country.