MANILA, Philippines – The Duterte administration has not yet even started, and already influence peddlers are sending word to the Department of Public Works and Highways that they have connections with incoming DPWH secretary Mark Villar and Duterte’s campaign spokesman Peter Laviña.
This is according to DPWH Secretary Rogelio Singson, who issued a statement warning department personnel to be on guard against influence peddlers making calls and sending messages, claiming to have connections with the Duterte administration.
Singson said name-droppers and influence peddlers are expected to operate especially during the transition period.
He said he himself has personally received such messages. Impostors are reportedly calling on the DPWH regional directors requesting for the names of big contractors with whom they could broker and arrange meetings with Villar.
Singson told all officials and personnel to be alert against people using the names of Villar and Laviña.
“Be vigilant about calls and messages as somebody has started to use the name of Congressman Mark and Mr. Peter Laviña, the presumptive president’s campaign spokesperson,” said Singson.
He also pointed out that all the contractors doing business with the agency are indicated in the list of infrastructure projects per region posted in the DPWH website. Thus, there is no reason to provide similar information to any person.