Revilla seeks investigation of DPWH payment on ‘ghost’ right-of-way claims

Sen. Ramon B. Revilla has sought an investigation into the payment by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) of fictitious right-of-way claims as it unduly "depletes scarce government financial resources."

Revilla has filed Senate Resolution No. 440 which seeks to probe the validation of right-of-way claims which has ballooned to P6.55 billion of which P491.1 million have already been paid as of Aug. 7, 2002.

The probe sought zeroes in on right-of-way claims in Region 12 as Revilla bared that corruption in the DPWH will mean reduced delivery of government services.

Citing an article posted in the government website, Revilla said a syndicate exists in the processing of right-of-way claims composed of the personnel from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Provincial Assessor, Register of Deeds, Provincial Engineer and Provincial Treasurer.

The Cavite senator said that the article "reinforces the findings of the World Bank that the DPWH is one of the most graft and corrupt-ridden branches of government."

He said he perception of corruption in the government is one of the reasons why foreign investors skip the country.

If investors locate here, then the economy will thrive, Revilla said, adding that investments mean creation of jobs and increased income for the people.

The resolution said that there have already been complaints filed before the office of Public Works Secretary Simeon Datumanong but no action has yet been taken on the allegations.