World · Philippines Bureau
Two DPWH engineers dismissed over canal death in Pampanga
Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon has terminated two engineers following a fatal accident in which a man drowned in an open drainage canal during recent monsoon conditions in Pampanga's third district.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — The Department of Public Works and Highways has removed two officers in charge from their positions in Pampanga province's third district following the death of a man who fell into an open drainage canal last month during heavy monsoon rains.
Aser Mallari and Agustin Dagsaan Jr., both officers assigned to the DPWH's local operations, were terminated by Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon in connection with the incident. The dismissals reflect the department's accountability for infrastructure maintenance and public safety.
The fatal accident occurred when the victim fell into the unprotected canal during the height of the monsoon season. The incident has raised concerns about the adequacy of safety measures and maintenance protocols for drainage systems in the region.
The DPWH has not released additional details regarding the specific circumstances of the case or whether further investigations are ongoing. The terminations underscore the growing pressure on the department to improve infrastructure safety standards and oversight across its provincial operations.