Get to Know More About the New DPWH Secretary: 6 Things You Did Not Know About Sec. Vince Dizon

In early 2025, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. appointed Vince Dizon as secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways, placing him at the helm of one of the country’s largest and most scrutinized government agencies. The appointment came after months of public concern over delayed projects, budget issues, and internal problems that affected the delivery of basic infrastructure services.

The DPWH oversees national roads, bridges, flood control projects, and public buildings. Any delay or failure within the department affects mobility, safety, and economic activity. Dizon assumed office during a period when lawmakers and the public demanded more precise answers and firmer action.

From his first weeks in office, Dizon adopted a restrained and direct manner. He avoided grand statements and focused on explaining processes, responding to questions, and reviewing internal operations. His early public appearances showed a preference for clarity over rhetoric, especially during budget hearings and congressional inquiries.

Experience That Shaped His Leadership

Vince Dizon entered the DPWH with years of experience in the national government. Before his appointment, he held senior positions in transportation, economic planning, and national response agencies. His background includes coordinating across departments, managing large budgets, and making decisions under pressure.

Trained in economics, Dizon built most of his career inside public service rather than private industry. His previous roles exposed him to large-scale programs that demanded speed, accountability, and coordination with local governments. These experiences shaped his administrative style, which favors structured reviews and written directives.

Observers note that Dizon is accustomed to working under scrutiny. In earlier posts, he often faced public questioning and legislative oversight. This familiarity with high-pressure environments helped him adjust quickly to the demands of leading the DPWH.

Little-Known Facts About Vince Dizon

Several aspects of Vince Dizon’s leadership style are rarely discussed publicly. These details offer a clearer picture of how he manages the department day to day.

• Dizon ordered reviews of ongoing and delayed projects soon after taking office, including those approved before his term, to check compliance and progress.

• He brought back internal bodies, such as the Merit Promotion Board, to handle staff movement and promotions in a more orderly manner.

• During Senate budget hearings, he answered questions directly and accepted responsibility for issues raised about project delays and spending.

• He publicly stated that he has no plans to seek higher political office and remains focused on his role at the DPWH.

• Several local officials reported faster communication with the DPWH under his leadership, especially during disaster response situations.

• He issues written instructions with precise deadlines and assigned offices to reduce confusion and implementation delays.
  

Image taken from Rappler.com

Achievements and Ongoing Challenges

By the middle of 2025, the DPWH showed early signs of change, though challenges remained. Some long-delayed infrastructure projects resumed after completing internal reviews. Personnel adjustments were introduced, with engineers and administrators reassigned to areas with urgent needs.

Despite these steps, the department continued to face pressure over budget use. Lawmakers raised concerns during hearings about the pace of spending, noting that a significant portion of the annual allocation remained unused by midyear. Dizon explained that project evaluations and delayed fund releases affected disbursement timelines.

Budget reductions approved by Congress further complicated project planning. Several programs required scaling down or revision. Dizon defended these adjustments as necessary to ensure funds were used appropriately and that projects met legal and technical requirements.

Balancing speed and caution proved difficult. Moving too quickly risked mistakes, while delays drew public criticism. Dizon’s responses showed a preference for process even when it slowed visible progress.

Perspectives from Lawmakers and Officials

Public and political reaction to Dizon’s leadership has been mixed but attentive. Some senators expressed confidence in his ability to lead reforms, while also warning that results must follow assurances. Others reminded him that patience among lawmakers and the public was limited.

Local government officials offered varied assessments. Some praised improved coordination and quicker communication, particularly during disaster response. Others said project approvals still took longer than expected.

Within the DPWH, employees adjusted to more straightforward rules and closer oversight. While some welcomed the structure, others found the transition demanding. Still, many acknowledged that expectations under the new leadership were more defined.

Looking Ahead for the Department

As the year progresses, the focus will turn to the 2026 budget and the continuation of significant infrastructure projects. Dizon faces the task of maintaining public trust while delivering visible results. Legislative scrutiny is expected to intensify, particularly on spending efficiency and project timelines.

The department’s performance under his leadership will be measured less by statements and more by completed roads, safer bridges, and effective flood control systems. For now, Dizon remains a steady figure in an agency known for constant pressure and limited margin for error.

His tenure will likely shape not only the DPWH’s direction but also broader expectations for accountability in public infrastructure management.