Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manuel Bonoan,
FORMER Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manuel Bonoan has not returned to the Philippines since leaving for the United States in November, according to the Bureau of Immigration (BI), raising questions as investigations into alleged flood control irregularities continue.
Bonoan, who is under an immigration lookout bulletin due to his involvement in the flood control controversy, departed the country on November 11, 2025, reportedly to accompany his wife for a medical procedure.
“Records show that he has not returned to the Philippines to date, despite indicating December 17, 2025, as his return date in his letter, submitted through counsel on November 10, 2025,” the BI stated in an advisory.
The former DPWH chief resigned amid a scandal involving “ghost” flood-control projects in Bulacan, and he is among the officials accused of involvement.
The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) has requested the Ombudsman to investigate and file administrative charges against Bonoan after finding him liable for two ghost projects in Bulacan: a P72.4-million riverbank project and another project worth P95.04 million.
The ICI recommends that Bonoan face administrative charges for grave misconduct, gross dishonesty, conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service, and violations of Republic Act No. 6713, or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.
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