Manila: Officials of the Construction Industry Association of the Philippines (CIAP) and the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board (PCAB) will still be summoned for the investigation on the erring construction firms despite their resignations. This was stressed by Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina Roque on Thursday, a day after CIAP Acting Executive Director lawyer Herbert Matienzo resigned from his post.

According to Philippines News Agency, Matienzo indicated in his resignation letter that he would cooperate with the investigation. Secretary Roque confirmed this to journalists during the Malikhaing Pinoy Expo at SM Aura in Taguig City. Meanwhile, two PCAB board members, Engineers Arthur Escalante and Erni Baggao, have also stepped down, citing personal reasons for their resignation.

The resignations come amidst a government investigation into anomalies concerning Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) infrastructure projects, including flood control initiatives. Secretary Roque mentioned that officials have been identified to fill the vacated positions, though she withheld specific details as paperwork is still being finalized.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has identified 15 construction firms that have dominated government flood control projects across the country. In response, Secretary Roque noted that an independent investigation has been conducted by her department. On Wednesday, Roque placed both the PCAB and the CIAP under her direct supervision to ensure integrity and transparency through a comprehensive reorganization.

Roque stated, "Placing them under my direct supervision will ensure that order, transparency, and accountability are restored within these agencies."