Photo credit: DPWH

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon has officially requested that the Department of Justice (DOJ) issue an Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order (ILBO) for former DPWH Undersecretary Roberto R. Bernardo. The action aims to prevent Bernardo from leaving the country while an investigation into alleged ghost and substandard flood control projects is ongoing.

In a letter addressed to DOJ Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, Dizon stated that the timely issuance of an ILBO is of utmost necessity to enable the ongoing investigations to proceed without delay and to hold those liable accountable to the Filipino people. The investigation is being conducted into DPWH officials and key officers of construction companies allegedly involved in the fraudulent projects.

Dizon's request also highlights the importance of the ILBO in light of similar requests from lawmakers who are conducting investigations and wish to invite Bernardo to their hearings. He noted that the Bureau of Immigration and other law enforcement agencies must be on alert to prevent any attempt by the former official to leave the country.

Dizon, who took over as DPWH Secretary on September 1, 2025, following the resignation of Manuel Bonoan, has been tasked by President Marcos Jr. to conduct a full organizational sweep of the department and root out corruption. This request for an ILBO is part of his efforts to ensure public funds are used for infrastructure that truly benefits the Filipino people.