Ombuds asked to probe MCIAA runway repaint

CEBU - Businessman turned anti-graft crusader Crisologo Saavedra has asked the Office of the Ombudsman-Visayas to investigate the alleged anomalous repainting of the runway and the improvement of the Most Important People Complex of the Mactan Cebu International Airport.

Saavedra urged the anti-graft body to investigate Mactan Cebu International Airport Authority general manager Danilo Francia, assistant manager Romeo Bersonda and four other airport officials including the contractor for alleged violation of the Republic Act 9184 otherwise known as the Government Procurement Act and R.A. 6713 otherwise known as the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.

The other respondents are property division manager Alvarro Derramas, principal engineer Eduardo Ginete and senior corporate accountant Grace del Bando.

Also named respondent of the complaint was Engr. Fortunato Sanchez, Jr. of Socor Construction Corporation.

Saavedra alleged that the repainting of the runway markings at the MCIA was done without a public bidding. He also alleged overpricing and awarding of contract to a favored contractor.

Saavedra said that on October 23, 2006, the engineering department of MCIAA requested for the repainting of the runway markings at an estimated cost of P1,071,571.20.

On November 18, 2008 Francia allegedly issued a notice to proceed with the construction by Socor Construction without any supporting documents from the Bids and Awards Committee.

The project was allegedly negotiated because of the ASEAN Summit but based on records it was completed after the summit. It allegedly started December 13, 2006 but was completed February 20, 2007 already after the summit.

On top of that, Saavedra also urged the Ombudsman to investigate the same officials including Catherine Sepulveda, manager of the MCIAA cashiering division, over the alleged site improvement of the MIP Complex without a public bidding and awarding it to favored contractor.

The project allegedly cost P287,729.53. Similar to the repainting of the runway markings, Saavedra alleged that it did not also go through a competitive public bidding and was awarded immediately to Socor Construction. — Fred P. Languido/BRP (THE FREEMAN)