Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon has reaffirmed the authority of regional and district engineers within the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to approve and disburse infrastructure project funds. This decision overrides recommendations from the Independent Commission for Infrastructure, which reportedly advised against such decentralization of financial power. The move allows DPWH’s regional offices to continue managing funds directly, a practice that has previously raised concerns about transparency and potential irregularities. Secretary Dizon’s justification for maintaining the status quo has not been publicly detailed. Critics argue this could hinder efforts to improve accountability in infrastructure spending. The Commission’s recommendations aimed to centralize financial control and enhance oversight of DPWH projects nationwide. This decision signals a continuation of the existing system despite calls for reform.