The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has ordered NCR Regional Director Gerard Opulencia to explain alleged irregularities at the P774-million Sunog Apog Pumping Station in Tondo, Manila.
In a show cause order issued Friday night, Secretary Vince Dizon gave Opulencia five days to explain under oath why he should not face administrative action. Dizon had earlier called the project “useless” after finding that it never worked properly since its completion in 2020, despite being fully paid.
Instead of easing floods, residents said the facility worsened water levels. The project also lacked a building permit and a power connection, preventing energization by Meralco. Despite unresolved defects, an additional P94 million upgrade was funded, with a further P200 million proposal in the pipeline.
The order warned that failure to explain could constitute gross neglect of duty, grave misconduct, or conduct prejudicial to the public interest.
