77 infra projects in Cebu cleared to resume

Local

SEVENTY-SEVEN provincial infrastructure projects in Cebu have received clearance to resume after contractors secured the required endorsements from the Provincial Engineering Office (PEO).

Governor Pamela Baricuatro, who earlier ordered a province-wide suspension for audit and compliance review to 154 infrastructure projects, directed engineers to restart the cleared projects.

“Accordingly, you are directed to facilitate the orderly recommencement of all affected projects, ensure strict adherence to approved plans and specifications and regularly submit progress reports to the Office of the Governor,” her memorandum stated.

She stressed that the suspension, which took effect on August 22, was temporary.

“We are not automatically and permanently suspending the projects. We did not,” Baricuatro said, citing Section 16 of the Local Government Code as the basis for halting projects that could pose risks.

Provincial Engineer Hector Jamora confirmed that some projects face termination for lack of progress, while others await paperwork.

Those with complete documentation have been cleared to continue.

Among the projects allowed to resume is the Malabuyoc bulk water system, a joint venture between SBK Construction Inc. and St. Gerard Construction and Development Corp., owned by contractor Cezarah Rowena “Sarah” Discaya, who is under investigation over alleged irregularities in flood control projects.

SBK representative Atty. Joe Kenneth Kwan Arbas said the Malabuyoc facility is over 86 percent complete and only needs power to operate.

He noted that the Provincial Board approved a resolution for Cebu Electric Cooperative Inc. 1 to connect electricity, which could make the project operational before year’s end.

The Alegria bulk water system, also awarded to SBK and St. Gerard, has stalled at 18 percent completion. Arbas said the absence of a treatment plant site delayed progress, while Jamora confirmed that the Discayas’ suspended license prevents further work.(MyTVCebu)