License of ex-DPWH engineer linked to flood control scam revoked

National

THE civil engineering license of former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) district engineer Henry Alcantara has been ordered revoked by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) over his involvement in anomalous flood control projects in Bulacan.

In a statement issued Tuesday, Jan., the PRC said the controversial engineer was found guilty of grossly unprofessional and unethical conduct, citing his own admission of participation in irregular and non-existent infrastructure projects.

According to the PRC, millions of pesos in public funds were released for so-called “ghost projects,” or flood control works that were documented on paper but were never actually built on the ground.

Some projects, the commission added, were implemented using substandard materials despite full payments being approved.

The board said Alcantara willfully authorized payments for these projects, an act it described as a serious violation of the Code of Ethics for Civil Engineers.

It also ruled that his actions constituted a clear betrayal of public trust, particularly given his position in overseeing critical infrastructure meant to protect communities from flooding.

The revocation of Alcantara’s license effectively bars him from practicing civil engineering in the country.

The PRC emphasized that the penalty reflects the gravity of the misconduct and serves as a warning to professionals tasked with managing public funds and safety-related projects, a report by Philstar said.

Despite the ruling, the commission noted that Alcantara remains entitled to legal remedies under due process.

He may file a motion for reconsideration with the board within 15 days from receipt of the decision.

If the motion is denied, the PRC said Alcantara has another 15 days to file a notice of appeal before the commission.

Until the ruling becomes final, the procedural remedies remain available to him.(Xienderlyn Trinidad, USJ-R Comm Intern)