The Commission on Audit has flagged the Department of Public Works and Highways over various defects on 187 school buildings and other infrastructure projects undertaken by the agency’s contractors that resulted in delays in turnover and usage.
In separate findings, state auditors said P326.311 million worth of school buildings constructed under the Department of Education’s basic educational facilities fund cannot be used despite the shortage of classrooms due to structural defects, an absence of utilities or facilities, and non-compliance with procedures.
The projects were located in Metro Manila’s Manila City, Quezon City, Malabon City and Navotas City; Ilocos Sur; Ilocos Norte, and Cebu province.
Three of the school buildings do not have electricity connections, one has no water supply, and two have no tables, chairs, or any of the required laboratory installations.
“The BEFF was intended to address the surmounting classroom shortage the schools are experiencing at present. Thus, the non-utilization of the completed school buildings due to lack of electricity and water and school facilities and delayed turnover hindered delivery of quality basic education,” the report read.
DPWH, however, clarified its participation was limited to construction, and that DepEd was responsible to ensure that facilities and utilities were delivered or installed.
In another observation, the audit team flagged various technical defects in 334 projects, including school buildings, roads, flood control systems, hospital and health centers, fish port and a gymnasium.
“Inspection of 334 infrastructure projects conducted by the CoA-technical audit specialists during the year revealed defects/deficiencies including items of work which were not in accordance with the standard specifications,” CoA said.
Problems noted in relation to road projects included steep gradients, failing embankment, major cracks on road surface, and absence of road shoulders.
“The above defects/deficiencies will result in wastage of government funds and property, if not corrected by the contractors in due time,” the commission said.
