Screengrab from DPWH

Public Works and Highways Undersecretary Arrey Perez has stepped down from his post amid allegations linking him to certain contractors — accusations first raised by Batangas 1st district Representative Leandro Leviste.

DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon confirmed Perez’s resignation in a press conference, describing him as a “good worker” who chose to resign “so as not to be a hindrance” to the agency. Dizon said the resignation is irrevocable and has been accepted by the department.

“Perez is no longer part of the DPWH. He voluntarily resigned, and we respect his decision,” Dizon said, emphasizing that the resignation will not stop the ongoing probe. “Just because he resigned, we will still investigate. Facts must prevail.”

The controversy began when Leviste publicly mentioned Perez’s name while questioning DPWH’s dealings with flood control contractors. He urged Dizon to address what he called “doubts in the leadership of the DPWH” and to ensure transparency in the agency’s procurement process.

Leviste later clarified that Perez was not necessarily the official he was directly referring to, explaining that it was only presumed that some contractors were in contact with Secretary Dizon’s team.

As scrutiny over infrastructure projects continues, Dizon assured that accountability remains a top priority. “If there are officials involved in wrongdoing, they will be removed and held accountable. No one is above the law in the DPWH,” he said.