The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has found former Bulacan 1st District Engineer Henry Alcantara guilty of grave misconduct, disloyalty, neglect of duty, and conduct prejudicial to public service for his involvement in ghost flood control projects in the province.
In a seven-page decision, DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon cited the engineer’s role in clearing non-existent infrastructure in Barangay Piel, Baliwag and Barangay Perez, Bulacan—projects that were fully paid for despite never being implemented.
“Respondent’s (Alcantara) failure to safeguard public interest resulting in the payment of ‘ghost’ projects tarnished the image and integrity of DPWH,” the decision stated.
Effective September 4, 2025, Alcantara’s dismissal carries penalties including permanent disqualification from holding public office and forfeiture of retirement benefits.
The DPWH also uncovered another irregular flood control project in Plaridel, which had been cleared by Alcantara. Secretary Dizon warned, “Ito ay isang babala sa mga opisyal at kawani ng DPWH na responsable sa mga ghost at substandard projects.”
The department is now recommending that criminal charges be filed against Alcantara and several other officials, including former assistant district engineer Brice Ericson Hernandez, engineer Jaypee Mendoza, and accountant Juanito Mendoza.
