Delos Santos demands transparency

CEBU, Philippines — Councilor Mary Ann de los Santos has called for transparency in the bidding process for the contractor handling the construction of the remaining floors of Cebu City Medical Center (CCMC), questioning the manner in which the bidding is being undertaken.

Earlier this week, Cebu City Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia announced that the bidding process for the construction of the 3rd to 6th floors of CCMC has reached the post-qualification stage. Despite this progress, concerns over project delays remain under scrutiny by the city’s legislative body, which continues to hold executive sessions to investigate these issues.

When asked for her reaction, de los Santos expressed frustration over what she described as a lack of consideration for the minority in the council.

She said the council has already passed a resolution requesting the mayor to hold in abeyance the ‘bidding of CCMC’ until all issues concerning the previous phases and related concerns are resolved.

She also pointed out that the ongoing executive sessions should be taken into account before proceeding with the bidding process. In the most recent executive session, de los Santos disclosed that the Department of Engineering and Public Works (DEPW) informed the council that the bidding had already been conducted on December 23, 2024.

“When asked who the winning bidder is, they had no answer,” de los Santos emphasized, questioning the transparency of the process.

She reiterated her stance that the bidding process seemed rushed and lacked the necessary openness expected in government transactions.

“Again, I demand transparency in the public bidding. We can be innovative by live-streaming this bidding, especially since this is a very controversial project,” de los Santos asserted.

She further highlighted that the council's sessions are broadcast via live stream, ensuring public access to deliberations.

“So why can’t we do it for the CCMC bidding? Take note, this is a P700M project! We can only surmise why there is such haste and secrecy,” she added.

Meanwhile, Mayor Garcia maintained that the project has already suffered significant delays and emphasized the urgency of moving forward. He announced plans for a ceremonial groundbreaking to mark the start of construction within the month.

“Gusto pa gyud nila i-delay pa? Di na ko musugot kay ang mga Sugboanon are suffering,” Garcia stated.

He also defended the city government’s approach, noting that concerned departments have been cooperative and responsive in council hearings.

The CCMC bidding process has become a focal point of controversy, with opposition council members questioning the city government’s timeline and transparency measures. Following de los Santos' privilege speech on the matter, the legislative body initiated a series of executive sessions to review the project’s procedures and ensure accountability. — /FPL (FREEMAN)