Controversy mars Baguio Christmas tree project

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – The city government is not satisfied with the Christmas tree it ordered put up along Session Road and has directed the contractor to rectify the deficiencies.

A day after the unveiling of the Christmas tree, the city building and architecture office (CBAO) told the contractor, Pilipinas Realty Corp., to supply the lacking items by Dec. 6.

In an inspection report submitted to CBAO chief Nazita Banez, the officers noted 14 defects in the project.

It said the contractor did not follow the number of lights that should be installed in the structure as specified in the contract.

The inspectors said the tree was of poor quality, the lights’ movements were not synchronized and the contractor installed spotlights instead of floodlights.

“There are only 12 gift boxes instead of 18,” the report said.

The CBAO ordered the contractor to improve the design and add more potted plants and LED lights at the base of the tree.

The project, which was unveiled on Dec. 1, reportedly cost P1.2 million.