Leadership revamp at CIAP, PCAB reinforces transparency drive

Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina Roque has appointed acting officials to head two construction-related agencies following leadership changes linked to an ongoing investigation into infrastructure projects.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) announced Saturday that Doris Gacho has been designated acting executive director of the Construction Industry Authority of the Philippines (CIAP), while engineer Sergie Retome will serve as acting executive director of the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board (PCAB).

Roque placed both agencies under her direct supervision on September 3 to ensure integrity and transparency in the management of flood control projects currently under investigation. On the same day, CIAP’s then-acting executive director, lawyer Herbert Matienzo, resigned.

The DTI said Gacho and Retome will serve until permanent replacements are appointed in accordance with Civil Service Commission rules. “This will ensure continuity of operations during the revamp,” Roque said.

The trade chief also announced the creation of an Oversight and Fact-Finding Management Team to coordinate investigations, communications, and recovery efforts. The team will also oversee matters such as PCAB licensing. “This mechanism will safeguard public interest, ensure accountability and maintain stakeholder confidence,” Roque added.