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Lara Esquibil has recently emerged as a central figure in the Philippine government’s infrastructure sector, culminating in her appointment as the Officer-in-Charge (OIC) Undersecretary for Convergence Projects and Technical Services at the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). Her trajectory within the agency, marked by a decade of dedicated service, stands as a testament to the success of merit-based recruitment programs and is being championed as a pillar of the DPWH’s drive for internal reform and integrity.
Born in the year 1989, making her 36 years old at the time of her major appointment in October 2025, Engineer Esquibil represents a new generation of technical professionals rising through the civil service ranks. Her career foundation was laid through a highly selective and rigorous initiative: the Cadet Engineering Program (CEP).
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The Cadet Engineering Program Graduate
Lara Esquibil was a member of the first batch of engineers recruited under the CEP in 2013. This program, which was an initiative spearheaded by then-Public Works Secretary Rogelio “Babes” Singson, was designed to cultivate a pipeline of young, high-caliber engineers to eventually assume leadership roles within the department. The CEP was an intensive 26-week program, encompassing classes on public service, the country’s public infrastructure landscape, the mandate of the DPWH, and operational procedures across the agency’s regional, district, and project management offices. Its primary objective was to recruit and train newly licensed engineers, ensuring their professional advancement was determined by merit and competence rather than a system of patronage.
Her early entry and success in the CEP provided her with a comprehensive understanding of the DPWH’s technical and administrative workings. In the years following her graduation from the program, she steadily built her expertise and rose through the ranks.
Leadership in the Bureau of Design
Prior to her elevation to the undersecretary post, Engineer Esquibil held a significant leadership position within the DPWH Central Office. She served as the Officer-in-Charge (OIC) Director of the Bureau of Design (BOD). She assumed this directorial role in July 2025.
The Bureau of Design plays a crucial role in the nation’s infrastructure development, as it is responsible for the technical planning, standards, and detailed design of public works projects. Her leadership of this bureau a core technical service of the DPWH—demonstrated a mastery of the engineering principles and technical services necessary for quality infrastructure development, solidifying her reputation as a highly competent and professional engineer within the agency.
New Role Amidst Agency Reform
The appointment of Engineer Lara Esquibil in October 2025 to OIC Undersecretary for Convergence Projects and Technical Services is a pivotal moment for both the engineer and the department. She succeeded the former undersecretary, Arrey Perez, who resigned following allegations linking him to contractors.
In announcing her appointment, DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon emphasized that her selection was a clear signal of the agency’s commitment to internal reform, professional excellence, and integrity. Dizon publicly acknowledged the recommendations of former DPWH chiefs Rogelio Singson and Jose “Ping” de Jesus, both of whom vouched for her character and capability. Secretary Dizon placed his “full trust and confidence” in Esquibil, highlighting her as a “very, very young, dynamic, and professional lady” who is “honest” and “hardworking,” and a “perfect fit” to serve the country and deliver quality projects.
The new OIC Undersecretary assumes responsibility for a critical portfolio, which includes the department’s major convergence programs (infrastructure projects developed in partnership with other government agencies) and all technical services (encompassing design, construction, and monitoring).
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The Call to Service
The context of her appointment was challenging. Secretary Dizon admitted that he had to convince her to accept the post, citing that Esquibil expressed hesitation due to the “controversy” and “intrigue” surrounding the agency, which he had previously described as a “toxic environment.” Despite this, Dizon quoted her as someone who “loves the country very deeply,” and he assured her of the department’s full support, advising her to “do what is right, do what is proper, keep your integrity.”
Her ascent is actively being highlighted by the DPWH leadership to showcase a shift toward prioritizing internal promotions, empowering young professionals, and reviving the principles of the Cadet Engineering Program to ensure merit-based career progression within the agency. Her track record from joining as a Cadet Engineer in 2013 to becoming an Undersecretary in 2025, overseeing critical technical and convergence projects, makes her a prime example of the new administrative direction for the Department of Public Works and Highways.
