Obando Church Returns Donated Vehicle Amid Corruption Allegations Against Former DPWH Engineer

The National Shrine of Nuestra Señora de la Inmaculada Concepción de Salambao, commonly known as Obando Church, has resolved to return a pickup truck donated last year by Henry Alcantara, the dismissed Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Bulacan First District Engineer.

In a formal statement, the church explained that the decision came after reports surfaced linking Alcantara to irregularities in flood control projects within Bulacan.

"Due to the reports and accusations of corruption against Mr. Henry Alcantara, the Pastoral Council of the Parish of San Pascual Baylon promptly deliberated and concluded that returning the donation was the appropriate course of action," the statement read.

The church also stated that it is currently undertaking the necessary procedures to ensure the vehicle is returned appropriately to the rightful party through legal channels.

This move aligns with directives from both the Diocese of Malolos and the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP).

Obando Church recalled that the Nissan Navara was donated on June 1, 2024, and was accepted in good faith to support the ongoing pilgrimage involving the image of Our Lady of Salambao visiting various parishes.

"We accepted the vehicle in good faith owing to its role in facilitating the pilgrimage visits of the Holy Virgin's image to different communities," the church added.

Expressing regret for any concerns caused, the church reaffirmed its commitment to justice and integrity.

"We sincerely apologize for any distress this situation may have caused and wish to affirm our steadfast dedication to justice and doing what is right," Obando Church emphasized.

Alcantara was dismissed from his position earlier this September following investigations into alleged anomalies involving flood control initiatives in Bulacan.