DOTC denies Abaya raising campaign funds through MRT deal

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) on Friday refuted claims that its chief is raising campaign funds through the controversial P4.25-billion rehab contract for the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) Line 3.

DOTC spokesperson Michael Sagcal said there is no basis for allegations that Abaya is raising campaign funds by awarding the MRT rehabilitation deal to a consortium brokered by Liberal Party (LP) mate Marlo dela Cruz.

Abaya, the acting LP president, will be running for senator next year.

He has been accused of awarding billions to the supposedly unqualified companies represented by dela Cruz.

READ: Abaya caught in 3 rail controversies

"There is no basis for such speculation and rumor-mongering, as the DOTC strictly complies with bidding rules," Sagcal said in a text message.

"We limited this procurement to well-reputed foreign firms with established rail maintenance expertise, and will make appropriate announcements after award," he added.

Sagcal said there is no politics involved in the MRT project.

"We categorically deny any insinuation of politics having a part in our projects, as we are focused solely on the delivery of safe and efficient services to the public," he said. - Louis Bacani