Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon and Oriental Mindoro Gov. Humerlito Dolor inspected the ₱2.6 billion mega dike project in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro.
The 1.5-kilometer flood control structure, undertaken by St. Timothy Construction Corporation, was reviewed on-site by the officials. During the inspection, they measured installed sheet piles along the dike to check construction progress.
Dizon said the project was clearly not a “ghost project,” but admitted there were several serious problems. One major issue was that, despite being listed as completed in the master plan for this year, the project remains unfinished on the ground.
Further, the inspection revealed that the project lacked basic regulatory clearances and coordination with local authorities. According to findings, the construction had no environmental clearance certificate, no demolition permit, and no quarrying permit. The absence of coordination with the local government was also flagged.
Gov. Dolor emphasized that projects of this scale must comply with necessary requirements and work closely with local authorities to avoid complications.
