A Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) engineer in Batangas, identified as Abelardo Calalo, was arrested on August 22, 2025, for allegedly attempting to bribe Congressman Leandro Leviste of Batangas’ 1st District with P3.1 million. This incident unfolded during an entrapment operation by the Batangas Police, aimed at curbing corruption linked to flood control projects in the region.
The bribery attempt occurred as Leviste was probing various flood control projects that had come under scrutiny for reported irregularities and corruption. Calalo reportedly sought to influence Leviste’s investigation into these projects by offering cash to halt the inquiry.
The DPWH is currently facing congressional investigations into corruption allegations associated with flood control initiatives, where it’s claimed that officials frequently receive kickbacks from contractors. In response to Calalo’s arrest, the DPWH announced that he would be relieved of his duties and placed on preventive suspension while further investigations are conducted.
Leviste confirmed that he would be filing a formal case against Calalo before the Office of the Batangas Provincial Prosecutor on August 26. He emphasized the importance of integrity within the DPWH, calling for accountability regarding the quality and cost-effectiveness of public works projects. He also noted that inspections of flood control systems in his district revealed numerous inadequacies, with structures failing to withstand recent storms despite being relatively new.
In recent months, Senator Ping Lacson had previously raised alarms during a Senate inquiry, alleging that as much as 25% of flood project funding is siphoned off as kickbacks, with only 40% of allocated funds actually reaching project implementation. This pattern of corruption has been a persistent issue underscored by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who has spoken out against rampant corrupt practices within the DPWH.
In light of these ongoing investigations and public concerns, Leviste has proposed reallocating P275 billion earmarked for flood control to the Department of Education for constructing new classrooms, indicating his commitment to ensuring that public funds are used effectively and transparently.