Payment to Talisay contractors deferred

CEBU, Philippines - Contractors undertaking series of infrastructure projects in Talisay City, like those who build schools, rehabilitate roads and drainage, will not yet get paid as these projects did not pass through the City Council for approval.

In yesterday's council session, Councilor Edward Alesna, chairman of the committee on budget and finance, decided to "lay on the table" the committee report that sought to authorize Mayor Johnny De los Reyes to enter into a contract with winning bidders on several projects amounting to P1.2 million.

Under the City Council house rules, if the committee report on a proposed ordinance or resolution is unfavorable, the proposed ordinance or resolution shall be laid on the table.

The projects include building a perimeter fence at the San Roque Elementary School at a cost of P199,087.68; rehabilitation of local roads/pathways at the Borromeo Brothers Elementary School in Barangay Cansojong at a cost of P225,200; concreting the flooring and drainage system at the same school at a cost of P399,900; to improvement of the stockroom at the Commission on Audit office inside the Talisay City Hall at a cost of P21,600; rehabilitation of the Talisay City Landing Monument at a cost of P99,524.17; and asphalting of the driveway at the Talisay City Central School at a cost of P244,975.

Vice Mayor Romeo Villarante, the council presiding officer, questioned the projects as he said they have been conducted and completed even without the approval of the council.

Bids and Awards Chairman and City Administrator John Yre de los Reyes was summoned to attend yesterday's council session in order for him to explain the implementation of the projects. John Yre was not able to show up at the session.

John Yre, in his letter addressed to the vice mayor, explained that his failure to attend was due to a pre-bid appointment scheduled on the date and time of the council session.

He, however, assured the City Council that the implementing rules and regulations in the conduct of bidding were strictly followed.  — (FREEMAN)