P-Noy on DPWH contracts: No more 'pwede na'

MANILA, Philippines - President Aquino called on the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to hold contractors responsible for substandard government-funded infrastructure projects.

During his inaugural speech yesterday, Mr. Aquino mentioned the problem of substandard work by contractors that only contributes to the lack of infrastructure for transportation, tourism and trade in the country.

“Henceforth, ‘that will do’ will no longer do when it comes to roads, bridges and buildings because we will hold contractors responsible for maintaining their projects in good condition,” Mr. Aquino said, using the term “pwede na.”

DPWH Undersecretary Romeo Momo, for his part, took the cue and assured the President that contractors would be held liable for substandard work on infrastructure projects.

Momo noted the inaugural speech of Mr. Aquino that included a warning that his administration would not tolerate substandard infrastructure works.

Momo stressed the DPWH is working in line with the new Chief Executive’s vision.

“The instruction of the President is in consonance with the mandated task of the department, that all projects being implemented by the different implementing offices should comply with the provisions of Republic Act 9184,” Momo said.

Under RA 9184, contractors should follow the provisions of the contract particularly in the aspect of quality and specification.

“With regard to strict adherence to the specifications and quality of each project, all contractors should be held liable for the effects and deficiencies of their project, (and that) includes the one supervising it,” Momo said.