The Department of Trade and Industry has filed formal charges against eight major contractor-licensees for their alleged involvement in irregular flood control projects and possible violations of construction industry regulations.
The companies charged were Legacy Construction Corporation; Centerways Construction & Development Inc.; Alpha & Omega General Contractor & Development Corp.; MG Samidan Construction; L.R. Tiqui Builders Inc.; QM Builders; EGB Construction Corporation; and Hi-Tone Construction and Development Corporation.
DTI Secretary Cristina Roque said the filing underscores the government’s resolve to ensure fairness, accountability, and integrity in the construction sector.
“The DTI will not allow any contractor to undermine the safety and quality of our nation’s infrastructure. Every project must reflect competence, honesty, and compliance with standards. These actions send a clear message that only those who build with integrity have a place in the Philippine construction industry,” she said.
Eight contractors more are also set to face formal charges for their alleged participation in similar anomalies, including Triple 8 Construction & Supply Inc.; Topnotch Catalyst Builders Inc.; Sunwest Inc.; Road Edge Trading & Development Services; SYMS Construction Trading; Wawao Builders Corp.; Royal Crown Monarch Construction and Supplies Corporation; and St. Timothy Construction Corporation.
Meanwhile, the Independent Commission for Infrastructure assured the public it will ensure that all responsible parties in the anomalous flood control projects are held accountable.
“The ICI hears and understands the public’s call for accountability and justice. The Commission is one with them against corruption,” the ICI said in a statement.
The ICI said while the fact-finding investigation is ongoing, “we meticulously assess and verify all information received while respecting the Constitutional rights of all resource persons invited.”
The commission explained that before referring cases to the Office of the Ombudsman, it ensures that all findings are substantiated and capable of withstanding scrutiny in the court of law to prevent dismissal.
“We continuously call on all persons involved in the investigation, both public and private individuals, to testify and/or cooperate fully. Additionally, the ICI publicly announces hearings and discloses the names of individuals scheduled to appear before the Commission,” the ICI said.
At the Upper House, Senator Panfilo Lacson said should he be re-elected as chairman of the Blue Ribbon Committee, a “very important witness” along with controversial retired Marine officer Orly Guteza will be summoned for questioning.
Guteza was presented as a “surprise witness” by Senator Rodante Marcoleta during the panel’s Sept. 25 hearing. Marcoleta said Guteza was referred to him by former lawmaker Michael Defensor.
Lacson said the “important witness” will be invited to the hearing to hasten the filing of airtight cases against some politicians, Department of Public Works and Highways officials, and erring contractors.
“If elected again as Blue Ribbon chairman on Nov. 10, our hearing will resume on Nov. 14. To help speed up the filing of airtight cases against some politicians, DPWH officials, and errant contractors, we will invite, among others, a ‘very important witness’ and retired T/Sgt Orly Guteza to shed more light on his ‘sinumpaang salaysay,’” he said.
