Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon has issued a show-cause order against the officer-in-charge of the North Manila District Engineering Office over alleged irregularities surrounding the ₱774-million Sunog Apog Pumping Station in Tondo, which has remained non-operational since its supposed completion in 2020.
The order, directed at OIC District Engineer Dennis E. Sandoval, stemmed from Dizon’s inspection of the facility on Wednesday alongside Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) Special Adviser Benjamin Magalong and Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) memorandum flagged serious defects and compliance lapses that rendered the pumping station non-functional.
According to the Dizon, the facility never operated despite full payment being made. Worse, instead of easing floods, residents said the project has aggravated water levels in nearby communities.
Investigators also found that the station lacked the required building permit and power connection, preventing its energization by Meralco.
Dizon said that an additional ₱94 million upgrading project had already been initiated, with proposals for another ₱200 million, even though the original facility has yet to prove it works.
Officials likewise noted the absence of proper coordination with the Manila City Government during the project’s planning and implementation.
“These circumstances, if left unexplained, may constitute gross neglect of duty, grave misconduct, inefficiency, and/or conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service, in violation of civil service laws, rules, and regulations,” Dizon’s memorandum stated.
Sandoval was given five days to submit a written explanation.
Dizon also ordered the suspension of ongoing repair works on the Sunog Apog Pumping Station, stressing that accountability must first be established.
