Watchdog's graft suit 'frivolous,' says DPWH-6

ILOILO CITY — The Department of Public Works and Highways Western Visayas (DPWH-6) described as "frivolous" the latest graft complaint filed by watchdog group Crimes and Corruption Watch International Inc. (CCWI), calling it a recycled attack lacking merit and evidence.

DPWH-6 Director Sonny Boy Oropel, district engineers of the regional office and other top officials of DPWH-6, criticized CCWI President Carlo Batalla for allegedly using media to malign the agency after filing a complaint before the Office of the Ombudsman on May 21.

The group accused DPWH-6 of violating procurement laws by awarding contracts to Iloilo-based construction firm International Builders Corp. (IBC) despite the contractor's alleged "negative slippages" in ongoing projects.

"This is not the first time that CCWI has filed cases of similar nature against the personnel of DPWH... All of these cases were dismissed by the Office of the Ombudsman for lack of basis," the joint statement read.

Citing Ombudsman joint resolutions dated March 12 and Aug. 1, 2024, DPWH officials pointed out that earlier complaints filed by Batalla against both regional and district officials in Antique and Iloilo were dismissed after the watchdog failed to provide verified or authenticated evidence.

In one ruling, the Ombudsman noted the complainant cannot back up his claim of negative slippages.

DPWH accused Batalla of rehashing issues already addressed and attempting to harass public officials through "malicious" use of media platforms.

The agency said portions of the current complaint even refer to contracts already included in previous dismissed cases.

"It is evidently clear that the instant case is just as frivolous and filed solely for purposes of harassing the officials," it added.

DPWH also questioned CCWI's motivations, alleging that the group has attempted to solicit from multiple district and regional engineers in Western Visayas.

While CCWI is not among the officially accredited observers for procurement activities, DPWH-6 said it has allowed the group to attend public bidding in the interest of transparency.

However, the DPWH-6 noted that CCWI never raised any concerns or irregularities during those proceedings.

"It cannot be overemphasized that all projects, including the projects awarded to IBC, were all bid out through competitive bidding which is broadcasted to the public through livestream, and where multiple bidders participated," the statement added.

The DPWH-6 also highlighted that the Commission on Audit had not issued any adverse findings in its review of the contract of the regional office, particularly on the contracts mentioned in the complaint.

DPWH-6 warned that they may take legal action against Batalla and CCWI to defend their names and the integrity of the agency.

RJAY ZURIAGA CASTOR