Senator Mark Villar addresses alleged conflict of interest in DPWH projects

Senator Mark Villar, who previously served as Secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), issued a statement on Thursday firmly denying links to alleged anomalies in infrastructure projects carried out during his time leading the agency.

In his statement, Villar emphasized that he wanted to clarify the issues and highlight his commitment to integrity in public service. He assured his support for investigations into the allegations, saying he has nothing to hide and will uphold accountability and due process. Still, he strongly rejected the claims, stating, "Let me be unequivocal: I have no direct or indirect ownership or controlling interest in any company participating in DPWH projects. The official record will confirm that none of my relatives acquired any contracts from 2016 to 2021, during my tenure as Secretary."

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has confirmed that the Villar family is being investigated over alleged connections to a major contractor in Las Piñas who was awarded around P18.5 billion worth of projects during Mark Villar's time as DPWH Secretary and Senate Public Works Committee chair. The contractor, Carlo Aguilar of I&E Construction Corporation, is reportedly Villar's first cousin, which Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin "Boying" Remulla described as a "prohibited interest."

He pointed out that his work as DPWH Secretary centered on driving key reforms and regaining the public's trust in the department. He mentioned that these were pursued through multiple programs and initiatives. Villar also noted that they moved to digitize the agency's records with the help of partner institutions to make information more transparent and accessible.

The senator denied any ties to contractor Carlo Aguilar or involvement in DPWH irregularities. However, reports cite his family link to the Aguilar clan and concerns over public fund misuse. Las Piñas Rep. Mark Anthony Santos alleged that most projects went to a few contractors, including I&E Construction, which was tagged in "ghost projects." He also claimed that several DPWH works, such as drainage and flood control systems, were implemented without local permits.

From real estate and residential housing to water services, the Villar family oversees multiple enterprises across the country.