PASAY CITY, Philippines — Senator Imee Marcos on Friday raised questions regarding the legal standing of Vince Dizon to continue serving as acting secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), pointing out that his one-year temporary appointment has already lapsed.
The issue was brought to light during the Senate’s budget deliberations on the proposed 2027 DPWH budget. Marcos highlighted that Dizon originally assumed office on September 1, 2025.
Citing Section 17, Book III of the Administrative Code of 1987 (Executive Order No. 292), Marcos stated that acting appointments are strictly capped at a maximum period of one year.
She further referenced the landmark Supreme Court ruling in Pimentel v. Ermita, which established that the one-year limitation acts as a critical mechanism to prevent prolonged temporary appointments that bypass the confirmation process of the Commission on Appointments.
Marcos noted that she had sent an inquiry letter to the agency on September 2 regarding his official status, which Dizon admitted he had not personally seen despite being informed of it by DPWH Undersecretary Ricardo Bernabe III.
Dizon explained he was advised that his acting capacity remains valid until Congress adjourns, after which a new appointment would be needed. He added that DPWH legal officers maintained he could continue serving, though he acknowledged the need to consult the appointing authority.
When Marcos challenged the legal basis allowing his extended service, Dizon invoked Section 17 of the Administrative Code—an interpretation Marcos rejected. She also questioned whether a “holdover” status could legally apply given the explicit statutory restriction.
“I have never heard of a continuing appointment. There is no such animal,” Marcos said.
While addressing rumors of a possible permanent appointment issued on July 27, Dizon confirmed he had received no such documentation.
“If it was such, the Congress was already in session. So I have not received, Madam Senator,” Dizon said.
As the exchange concluded, Dizon maintained that he does not hold onto the post for personal interest and would welcome legal clarity.
“Kung totoo po ‘yung sinasabi niyo na hindi na ako Secretary ng DPWH, I will be more than happy to accept that,” Dizon said.
He further explained the limitations of his position regarding self-interpretation of his role.
“We cannot reply po on our own because hindi naman po akong naglalagay sa sarili ko dito,” he added.
Marcos clarified that she was not contesting his designation but was formally seeking a precise explanation regarding his current status.
“I would appreciate a formal explanation of exactly your status as Secretary,” Marcos said. “I am not contesting it, I am simply inquiring because I am utterly and completely ignorant.”
Dizon apologized for the delayed response to the September 2 letter and committed to submitting a formal response after consulting with the Office of the President.