DPWH official relied on contractor reports for road project oversight

MANILA — Felisardo Casuno, a former project engineer with the Department of Public Works and Highways, testified before the Sandiganbayan Sixth Division on Thursday regarding the allegedly substandard road dike project in Oriental Mindoro. Casuno acknowledged that there were instances when he and his staff could not personally conduct inspections or monitor construction work, requiring them to rely on progress reports submitted by contractor Sunwest.

The admission came during proceedings related to the contentious infrastructure project, which has drawn scrutiny over the quality of materials and construction standards used. Casuno's testimony suggests potential gaps in the agency's direct oversight mechanisms during the project's execution.

The Sandiganbayan Sixth Division is examining whether proper supervision protocols were followed and whether the reliance on contractor-generated reports constituted adequate project monitoring. The case centers on allegations that the dike construction deviated from engineering specifications and contractual requirements.

Casuno's testimony underscores broader questions about DPWH's capacity to conduct independent verification of infrastructure projects, particularly when contractor oversight depends significantly on self-reporting mechanisms.