What Is DPWH? A Comprehensive Overview to the Department of Public Works and Highways

What Is DPWH? A Comprehensive Overview to the Department of Public Works and Highways

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What is DPWH

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is a government agency responsible for the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure projects in the country, including roads, bridges, public buildings, and water resources facilities. 

The DPWH in the Philippines is crucial for building and maintaining the country’s infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and other structures. 

This article discusses the challenges faced by the Philippines and how the DPWH is working to address them, highlighting the importance of the department for the country’s future.

History & Founding

1898:

  • The Organic Decree established the Department of War and Public Works in the Philippine Revolutionary Government.

1902:

  • The Bureau of Engineering and Construction of Public Works and the Bureau of Architecture and Construction of Public Buildings were created under the Department of Commerce and Police.

October 26, 1905:

  • The Bureau of Public Works was established and placed under the Department of Commerce and Police.

1916:

  • The Department of Commerce and Police was transformed into the Department of Commerce and Communications.

May 1, 1931:

  • The Department of Commerce and Communications was renamed the Department of Public Works and Communications.

1951:

  • The Department of Public Works and Communications became the Department of Public Works, Transportation, and Communications (DPWTC).

1954:

  • The Bureau of Public Highways (BPH) was created and placed under DPWTC.

1974:

  • The BPH expanded and restructured into the Department of Public Highways (DPH).

1976:

  • DPWTC was renamed the Ministry of Public Works, Transportation, and Communications (MPWTC), and DPH became the Ministry of Public Highways (MPH).

July 23, 1979:

  • MPWTC was restructured into two separate Ministries: the Ministry of Public Works (MPW) and the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC).

July 27, 1981:

  • MPW and MPH were merged to form the Ministry of Public Works and Highways (MPWH).

Jan 30, 1987:

  • The MPWH was renamed the Department of Public Works and Highways, which it remains today, responsible for the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of various infrastructure projects in the Philippines.

Mission, Vision & Mandate

VISION: 

“By 2040, DPWH is an excellent government agency, enabling a comfortable life for Filipinos through safe, reliable and resilient infrastructure.”

The department’s vision is to become an excellent government agency by 2040. They aim to improve the lives of the people in the Philippines by creating safe and reliable infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and flood control systems. Their goal is to ensure that everyone can enjoy a comfortable life with these essential facilities.

MISSION: 

“To provide and manage quality infrastructure facilities and services responsive to the needs of the Filipino people in the pursuit of national development objectives.”

The Department promises to construct and maintain high-quality infrastructure, including roads and services that are necessary for the Filipino people. They are committed to helping the country develop and grow, ultimately improving the quality of life for all citizens.

MANDATE: 

The Department is one of the government’s crucial departments responsible for major projects like roads, bridges, flood control, and other public works. They are in charge of planning, designing, constructing, and maintaining these projects. Their primary focus is on national roads, bridges, and significant flood control systems.

DPWH Organizational Chart

DPWH Organization Chart

Career Opportunities of DPWH

Working at the Department of Public Works and Highways offers many different career options. 

You can become an engineer and help plan, design, and supervise the construction of important infrastructure projects like roads, bridges, and flood control systems. 

There are also administrative roles available, where you can manage the agency’s operations and resources. 

DPWH also has positions in finance, project management, environmental planning, and other areas, making it a flexible choice for people who want to work in public service and help improve Filipino communities.

Main Office

The main office of the Department of Public Works and Highways is situated at Bonifacio Drive, Port Area, Manila. 

You can reach their trunkline at 304-3000, and additional information can be found on their website at www.dpwh.gov.ph.

Bureaus

  • Bureau of Construction
  • Bureau of Design
  • Bureau of Equipment
  • Bureau of Maintenance
  • Bureau of Quality & Safety
  • Bureau of Research & Standards

Attached agencies

  • Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA)

 Conclusion

In conclusion, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in the Philippines has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century, evolving from various governmental entities to its current form. 

DPWH is on a mission to provide high-quality infrastructure that contributes to national development and ensures a comfortable life for Filipinos. 

For job seekers interested in a career with DPWH, there are diverse opportunities, including engineering, administration, finance, project management, environmental planning, and more.

It’s a dynamic agency that enables individuals to be part of public service and contribute to the betterment of Filipino communities. 

If you’re looking to join DPWH, consider researching their open positions, tailoring your resume to match their requirements, and demonstrating a passion for improving the nation’s infrastructure as part of your application. Good luck in your job search!

References

  1. Department of Public Works and Highways. (n.d.). Www.dpwh.gov.ph. https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/dpwh/
  2. Wikipedia Contributors. (2018, October 11). Department of Public Works and Highways. Wikipedia; Wikimedia Foundation. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Department_of_Public_Works_and_Highways