DPWH exec removed due to Duterte’s lack of trust – Palace

May 23, 2018

Dismissed Department of Public Works and Highways Assistant Secretary Tingagun Umpa should present evidence to prove that he was not engaged in any corruption activity, Malacanang said on Wednesday.

Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque made the statement after Umpa, in his social media, accused DPWH Region 10 official Zenaida Tan of being the one involved in corruption.

"Should Former Assistant Secretary Tingagun A. Umpa feel aggrieved, he could adduce evidence on his behalf to avoid criminal liability," Roque said.

"However, Mr. Umpa, a presidential appointee, was terminated due to lack of trust and confidence by the Chief Executive," he added.

Tan accused Umpa of overcharging the government on his trips and planned to earn "extra money" through projects.

In his Facebook account, Umpa urged the government to conduct a lifestyle check against some DPWH officials.

President Rodrigo Duterte earlier asked Umpa to quit or he would be fired from his post due to alleged corruption. Ella Dionisio/DMS