Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon has suspended the mandatory wearing of uniforms for all officials and employees of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) amid an ongoing investigation into alleged irregularities in flood control projects.

In a memorandum dated September 9 and released to the media Thursday, Dizon said DPWH personnel are “excused from wearing the prescribed office uniform until further notice” in light of current events.

According to an advisory posted on the DPWH’s media Viber group, the directive was issued to protect agency personnel from possible bullying and harassment linked to the ongoing probe.

Despite the suspension of the uniform policy, Dizon reminded employees to report for duty in “appropriate and presentable attire” at all times, in accordance with Civil Service Commission Circular No. 16, s. 2024 (Revised Dress Code for Government Officials and Employees).

The DPWH is under scrutiny following allegations that some of its officials received kickbacks from flood control projects nationwide.