MANILA, Philippines — Batangas 1st District Representative Leandro Leviste has identified Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Undersecretary Arrey A. Perez as one of the officials allegedly connected to contractors involved in government projects, Inquirer.net reports.
The revelation comes after DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon publicly urged Leviste to name the individuals he had accused of having ties to contractors. Dizon previously stated that none of his undersecretaries were linked to such activities.
In an interview with DZRH on Friday, Leviste said, “DPWH Undersecretary Arrey Perez,” when asked to identify one of the officials. He added that Perez was reportedly being considered to oversee procurement and bidding for major projects at the DPWH central office.
Leviste clarified that his goal is to push for systemic reform, not merely personnel changes. “We should focus on reforming the system, not just replacing those managing the bidding process,” he said.
When asked about the extent of Perez’s alleged involvement, Leviste said it would be up to Secretary Dizon to conduct a proper investigation. “Secretary Dizon said he can investigate the information as long as I name names, so I gave one,” he added.
As of press time, neither Undersecretary Perez nor the DPWH has issued an official response regarding the allegation.
