DOTC: 100 Transport Sector Projects Awarded In 2013

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Reporting on its procurement performance last year, the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) says that it awarded one hundred (100) projects through competitive bidding last year.

“The DOTC awarded no less than 100 projects in 2013 alone: from the rehabilitation and improvement of numerous ports and airports across the country, to the supply of Coast Guard rescue equipment, to the master planning of Metro Manila transport systems. These projects are now in various stages of implementation and completion,” said DOTC Secretary Joseph “Jun” Abaya.

“While we are still rolling out our big ticket projects, we have been mindful of the plight of the majority of Filipinos who rely on these infrastructure facilities for their livelihood. Fisherfolk who depend on functioning ports and wharves, agribusiness and commercial traders whose businesses count on air cargo transportation – they are already starting to benefit from these crucial projects,” he added.

The department’s hitting average in obligating funds for its projects is at 70%, since its Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) managed to obligate P 21,583,165,000.00 out of its 2013 allotments, which totalled P 30,738,436,000.00.

“I think we have one of the most hard-working Bids and Awards Committees in government. From the sheer number of projects bid out alone, their output speaks for itself. No one should question their dedication to honest, competent, and effective public service,” Abaya remarked.

Examples of the DOTC’s 2013 projects include: port improvement projects in places such as Meycauayan, Marinduque, and Siargao; airport upgrading works in areas such as Naga, Catarman, and Butuan; and the installation of airfield lighting systems for the Ozamiz, Dipolog, Roxas, and Cotabato airports.

Other projects are the construction of a Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Regional Office in Cagayan de Oro and a Land Transportation Office (LTO) District Office in Tangub City.

These also include the supply of magnetic tickets for the Metro Rail Transit III (MRT-3) and the installation/construction of various lots of “Kayo ang Boss Ko” or “KBK” toilet facilities for airports, seaports, and LTO and LTFRB offices in different regions of the archipelago.

Safety and security continued to be a priority for the DOTC, which equipped the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) with new assets to protect the national territory, such as the development of search-and-rescue (SAR) bases in Western Visayas and Northern Mindanao, and the procurement of fifty (50) rubber boats for use in its rescue operations.