Maambong bares "irregularities" of school buildings in province

CEBU, Philippines - With the “promotion for sale” controversy at the Department of Education still brewing, a 2007 Commission on Audit report, which reportedly shows 26 school buildings in Cebu left unfinished and/or abandoned by the contractor, has caught the attention of the Provincial Board.

In a sideline discussion on the “promotion for sale” issue, Board Member Victor Maambong said the COA report says that the unfinished school buildings, constructed under the Division of Cebu Province, had a total cost of P13,115,866.25.

The same annual report also reportedly disclosed that seven school buildings in the Division of Lapu-Lapu City, constructed at a total cost of P4,130,000, were said to be reported as completed as per program of works but deficiencies were later noted, such as poorly finished walls and ceilings, unpainted roofs, ceilings that failed to meet specifications, windows with no jalousies, and electrical wires and fixtures that were not installed.

Maambong said he himself reportedly encountered a “bad experience” with DepEd officials in the implementation of school projects, such as during the implementation of the province’s Alternative Learning in School program.

Maambong said he secured P500,000 for a school building in Consolacion, the funds for which were taken from the office of Vice Governor Gregorio Sanchez, Jr.

Maambong said DepEd officials in the province allegedly insisted that the project for one classroom building be awarded to one contractor and a member of the Bids and Awards Committee of the Department of Education-Cebu province allegedly even called him up and arranged a meeting with the contractor.

The Freeman is withholding the name of the BAC member awaiting his reaction to the COA report.

Maambong said he reportedly suggested that the project be implemented by the barangay and the Parent-Teachers Association to save funds but DepEd officials allegedly ignored his suggestion. Maambong said these alleged irregularities should be properly looked into to protect the name of DepEd. — Jose P. Sollano/JMO (THE FREEMAN)