DPWH engr ends life amid ICI investigation

By Manuel T. Ugalde

LEGAZPI CITY --- A 60-year-old engineer of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in Sorsogon allegedly took his own life early Wednesday morning, reportedly unable to bear the pressure of an ongoing investigation into alleged irregularities in public infrastructure projects.

According to colleagues at the Sorsogon 1st District Engineering Office, the victim, identified as Engr. Cesar “Larry” Perez, was found dead after hanging himself inside his residence.

A close friend and college classmate of Perez, who requested anonymity for lack of authority to speak, said the engineer had shown signs of anxiety and drastic weight loss in recent weeks, following the news of an impending probe by the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI).

The ICI, chaired by DPWH Undersecretary Vince Dizon and Justice Andres Reyes, reportedly began investigating Bicol-based infrastructure projects last week. The probe followed revelations involving billions worth of flood control projects allegedly linked to Senator Chiz Escudero’s campaign contributor, Laurence Lubiano, of Centerways Construction Corporation.

Last month, ICI reported that of more than 8,000 projects initially reviewed nationwide, about 408 were found to be “ghost projects,” while many others were either substandard or overpriced.

Despite assurances from the DPWH Bicol regional office that no such anomalies exist among its 16 district engineering offices across six provinces, Perez’s death has sent shockwaves and fear among employees.

A colleague, Allan Imperial, administrative officer at the Albay 1st District Engineering Office in Legazpi City, expressed shock and sorrow over the incident. “I was surprised and saddened when I confirmed the news from our counterparts in Sorsogon. Engineer Perez was a good man,” Imperial said.

Regional Director Virgilio Eduarte declined to issue a statement when sought for confirmation and comment.