Cayetano backs NorthRail rebidding

MANILA, Philippines - Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano has expressed support for the planned rebidding of the NorthRail project so that the government can secure terms better than those under the previous contract.

Cayetano, who has been critical of the various agreements entered into by the previous administration, including the NorthRail, said that the move of President Aquino to “reconfigure” the contract with the China National Machinery and Equipment Corp. (CNMEC) is welcome, considering allegations of past corruption.

He said there is a need to develop an efficient railroad system to the north in order to give the public easier access to transport hubs such as the Clark International Airport in Pampanga.

“For it to be a viable international airport, passengers would need to get there within 30 to 45 minutes,” Cayetano said.

Several airline companies have been flying in and out of the Clark airport to domestic and international destinations, often offering lower fares.

But Cayetano emphasized that the renewal of the project must avoid being tainted with the same corruption issues that led to the delay in its implementation.

“The government must be on the lookout for wastage, feasibility and corruption,” Cayetano said.

“As long as everything is kept aboveboard and transparent, then this project will surely be supported by the public,” he added.

Transportation Secretary Manuel Roxas II has indicated that the project would be redesigned and that CNMEC would be properly compensated for its contributions.

The project was plagued with allegations of anomalies, including its being overpriced and in violation of the country’s bidding laws.

It was among the issues included in the impeachment complaints filed against former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo during her term.