DPWH to blacklist at least 60 contractors

National

THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is considering the blacklisting of up to 60 contractors linked to large-scale corruption involving flood control projects.

The move comes in the wake of what officials have described as one of the biggest corruption scandals under the current administration, in which billions of pesos were allegedly lost through a widespread kickback scheme.

The scheme reportedly involved government officials, lawmakers, and private contractors, with public funds diverted to ghost or substandard flood control projects.

Malacañang said the DPWH is taking steps to clean up the agency by barring contractors found to be involved in the irregularities. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said that more than 60 contractors are being considered for blacklisting based on the findings.

Separately, the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board is processing the blacklisting of 16 contractors linked to the scandal, while at least four others have already had their licenses revoked.

Despite the crackdown, the Palace assured the public that infrastructure projects nationwide will continue, stressing that removing erring contractors would open opportunities for firms that comply with government standards.

In a Philstar report, Castro said “there is no need for contractors and industry players to fret because the president promised to pay all contractors who do their work properly.” (Adriane Josef E. Cabase, USJ-R Comm Intern)