Regulatory body chief resigns amid flood control scandal

Metro Manila, Philippines - The head of the regulatory body for government-accredited contractors has resigned, Trade Secretary Cristina Roque confirmed Thursday, Sept. 4, in the middle of a crackdown on questionable infrastructure projects.

Herbert Matienzo, Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board (PCAB) executive director, stepped down on Wednesday and Roque said she accepted the resignation on the same day.

She said Matienzo cited “personal reasons.”

Sen. Ping Lacson said in a privilege speech that PCAB has an “accreditation for sale” scheme, supposedly offering accreditation to contractors for a fee beginning at P2 million.

PCAB has denied the claim. https://www.newswatchplus.ph/news/2025/8/28/PCAB-denies-accreditation-for-sale-scheme.html

Roque said she has taken over supervision of the Construction Industry Authority of the Philippines and all its implementing boards, including the PCAB, in light of the controversies.

“Placing them under my direct supervision will ensure that order, transparency and accountability is restored within these agencies,” Roque said.

“Full transparency and cooperation are mandatory, and those who breach the trust and mandate entrusted to us will be held accountable,” she said.