Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon on Monday pledged sweeping reforms to safeguard the integrity of infrastructure development, warning that contractors previously blacklisted for substandard or “ghost” projects will face intensified scrutiny—even if they attempt to re-enter under new names.

Speaking at a Palace press briefing, Dizon emphasized the need for long-term structural safeguards and tighter oversight mechanisms to prevent repeat offenses in government infrastructure projects. “We just have to be very vigilant,” he said, stressing that the agency will no longer rely solely on company names but will investigate the actual entities behind bids.

The DPWH’s renewed stance comes amid concerns that some disqualified firms have resurfaced under different corporate identities. Dizon said the agency will work closely with the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board (PCAB), which is tasked with vetting contractors for both public and private projects. PCAB, under the Department of Trade and Industry, has faced criticism for allegedly granting top-tier accreditation to firms with questionable financial capacity.

“Lahat ito kailangang baguhin,” Dizon said, citing revelations from recent Senate hearings. He added that the reforms are part of a broader anti-corruption push, echoing President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call for “sweeping” changes in the infrastructure sector.

Dizon also highlighted the planned creation of an independent commission to investigate and hold accountable those involved in anomalous projects. “This is not just a matter of years—it’s decades of systemic corruption,” he said.

The DPWH’s intensified review process and permanent blacklisting policy aim to restore public trust and ensure that infrastructure projects meet the highest standards of quality and transparency.