Local contractors set system to avoid delays

CEBU, Philippines - Local contractors are currently beefing up their systems to protect themselves from unscrupulous persons and avoid delays in the application process of their registration and licenses as required by government agencies.

Cebu Contractors Association, Inc. (CCA) expressed their wish to be in tune with the order from the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board (PCAB) which sets a system for appointing contractor’s employees as authorized representatives or liaison officers to transact with the Board in the company’s behalf.

In a resolution issued two years ago, PCAB said they had observed contractors’ representatives who were often appointed on an ad hoc basis or when it was expedient and convenient at the time, which posed risk to contractors from unscrupulous persons.

Moreover, the appointment of different contractors’ representatives everytime application is filed delays the application process because the staff serving the applicant has to verify and ensure that the person transacting with PCAB is the contractor’s authorized agent.

Recognizing the need to protect the contractor and the application process in general, the Board therefore had to strengthen the system for appointing employees as legitimate representatives, the resolution read.

PCAB came up with a set of guidelines which particularly installs the proprietor or the authorized managing officer (AMO) as the primary representative of the construction firm.

This person may appoint not more than two representatives from among the employees of the construction firm to transact business with PCAB in his stead.

While the appointees are deemed permanent representatives, the contractor may change them by complying with the requirements set forth by the Board and the new appointment shall be effective only 30 days after submission of complete requirements.

In line with this regulation, CCA will be hosting a seminar that would better help contractors train their liaison officers and equip them with knowledge on the rules governing licensing and accreditation of constructors.

The orientation seminar will be held on June 6, 2013 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Waterfront Hotel and Casino in Lahug, Cebu City with registration fee of P2,500 for non-CCA members and P1,500 for CCA members.

According to CCA’s statement, today is the deadline for registration. No on-site registration will be allowed. For inquiries, interested registrants may contact CCA Secretariat at (032)-231-8501 or 422-7040 or e-mail them at [email protected]. (FREEMAN)