PUBLIC Works Secretary Vince Dizon has removed the maintenance chief of the Las Piñas-Muntinlupa District Engineering Office (LMDEO) for alleged negligence and slow disaster response.
LMDEO chief Engr. Loreto Balena Jr. was relieved following concerns over the district office’s failure to respond promptly and effectively during emergencies, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said.
“In view of repeated reports concerning your unsatisfactory performance, lack of a sense of urgency, and delayed response to calamities, you are hereby relieved of your duties as Maintenance Chief of the Las Piñas-Muntinlupa District Engineering Office effective immediately,” Dizon said in his Aug. 29 memorandum.
Dizon’s action underscores the agency’s tightening of accountability measures as the government faces mounting demands for faster disaster response, particularly during flooding, typhoons, and other emergencies that can disrupt roads and critical infrastructure.
The dismissal aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to clean up government ranks and hold officials accountable for poor performance and neglect of duty.
The DPWH said it will continue to strengthen discipline among its personnel to ensure that public services are delivered efficiently, promptly, and responsibly.
The agency stressed that government officials and employees entrusted with public infrastructure must be ready to act quickly, particularly when disasters threaten communities.
LMDEO is responsible for maintaining and managing national roads and other DPWH infrastructure within its jurisdiction, making its rapid response critical during emergencies.
The move is also part of the administration’s push for greater DPWH accountability, particularly amid heightened scrutiny of the agency’s handling of infrastructure, flood control, and disaster response concerns.
Dizon emphasized the need for DPWH personnel to respond quickly to problems on the ground rather than wait for complaints or prolonged administrative action.
The secretary’s latest move sends a blunt message to DPWH personnel: officials who fail to perform their duties or respond adequately during emergencies can be removed from their posts.
The DPWH said it would continue to enforce discipline and performance standards across its offices to protect public safety and ensure that government infrastructure serves its intended purpose.
Dizon’s action comes amid President Marcos’ broader directive for government agencies to improve efficiency and eliminate negligence, with officials being reminded that public office carries a responsibility to deliver timely and effective services.
