DOTr to Effect Stricter Sanctions to Erring Contractors of Government Projects

Wazzup Pilipinas!

In an effort to ensure on-time completion of government projects, as well as to uphold the safety of the public during construction, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) will be firm in implementing sanctions against erring private contractors.

This is in compliance with the directive of President Rodrigo Duterte, who observed that the delay in government projects is brought about by the lack of personnel working on the project. The President raised this concern during the 22nd Cabinet meeting held on 5 February 2018.

Upon the instruction of the President, the DOTr, through Undersecretary for Legal Affairs and Procurement Reinier Paul Yebra, immediately issued a memorandum to stipulate in government contracts that a work slippage of more than thirty (30) days would result in non-payment, cancellation of contract, blacklisting of the erring contractor, and the engagement of another contractor to finish the project. This is in addition to the grounds provided in RA 9184 (the Government Procurement Act).

Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade said the Department will not allow irresponsible contractors to take part in government projects, as it will not only result to delays but inflict further suffering of the people who are anxiously waiting for improvements.

“Kung hindi niyo kayang gawin ng maayos at hindi kayo sumusunod sa timeline, ‘wag na kayong kumontrata sa gobyerno! Iyong mga tinatamaan diyan ayus-ayusin niyo na ang pagtatrabaho, dahil hindi kami magda-dalawang isip na tanggalin kayo dyan. Hindi namin sasayangin ang pera ng taumbayan sa mga gaya ninyo”, said Tugade.

The order shall immediately take effect and will be cascaded to contractors who are presently engaged with government projects.