In a decisive move to expedite vital public infrastructure, Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas has ordered the cancellation of seven significant projects managed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), citing extensive delays, among other issues.
The Iloilo City Council, acting on Treñas’ endorsement, unanimously passed a resolution revoking the authority of the DPWH – Iloilo City District Engineering Office over the following projects:
· Mandurriao Public Market
· Dulonan, Arevalo Multi-Purpose Building
· Dungon C, Mandurriao Multi-Purpose Building
· Tanza Esperanza Multi-Purpose Building
· Santa Filomena, Arevalo Multi-Purpose Building
· Balantang, Jaro Multi-Purpose Building
· Katilingban, Molo Multi-Purpose Building
These projects, as outlined in the endorsement, remained unfinished and significantly behind schedule, with no indication of completion in sight. Treñas highlighted the urgency of finishing these projects to promptly serve the residents of Iloilo City.
“I have canceled all approval of the city on all DPWH projects on government land – Mandurriao market, all multi-purpose buildings, and the like. All these projects are terribly delayed,” Treñas stated.
The mayor, however, reassured the public that the city is prepared to find the necessary funds to ensure these projects are completed. “The city will look for the funds to complete the projects,” he affirmed.
Initially funded by the General Appropriation Act (GAA) of the national government, these projects have been plagued by persistent delays, causing increasing frustration among the city’s leadership.
Treñas expressed his dissatisfaction with the DPWH over their prolonged use of city land without acknowledging the delays or expressing gratitude for the city’s support.
Additionally, despite the city’s donation of land in Sooc, Arevalo for a new DPWH office, the construction remains incomplete.
In conjunction with the resolution to revoke project authority, City Councilor Jose Miguel Treñas proposed a resolution declaring Engr. Roy Pacanan, the head of the DPWH -Iloilo City District Engineering Office, persona non grata.
Councilor Urminico Baronda, Jr. abstained from voting and suggested that Pacanan should be allowed to explain the delays.