DPWH orders contractor to repair collapsed river dike in Oriental Mindoro

THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has ordered the Newbig Four J Construction, Inc. to repair the collapsed river dike project in Oriental Mindoro.

“[The agency]  will issue a demand letter to Newbig Four J Construction, Inc. ordering the immediate repairs of the collapsed river dike project,” the agency said in a media release on Monday, noting that this move does not rule out the possibility of charges being filed against the company for the alleged substandard project.

DPWH said that it has also formed a team of experts to conduct an assessment of the project. It will also establish solutions to prevent flooding in towns of Naujan and Victoria in Oriental Mindoro.

“The DPWH assures the public that it is already speeding up the river dike’s rehabilitation plan and ensures that the individuals behind the irregularities will be held accountable as soon as possible,” it said.

Public Works Secretary Vivencio B. Dizon said that the agency is also preparing cases to be filed against the contractor for using substandard materials for the project.

The P210-million road dike project in Naujan and the P239-million road dike project in Evangelista were both awarded to Newbig Four J in 2023, data from DPWH showed. — Ashley Erika O. Jose