Committee reviews status of ₱250M multi-purpose bldg project

The city council committee on public works convened to assess the progress of two government-funded projects covering Phases 1 and 2 of a multi-purpose building, with a total allocation of ₱250 million under the FY 2024 Local Government Support Fund–Financial Assistance to Local Government Units (LGSF-FALGU).

The discussion followed a communication from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), which noted that the projects remain tagged as “not yet started” in its SubayBAYAN monitoring system.

DILG City Director Ellaine Depaur explained that monitoring mechanisms are in place to ensure transparency and proper utilization of government funds. She encouraged the prompt submission of documentary requirements and a clear implementation timeline, while assuring the department’s continued support and coordination with the city government.

Providing updates from the City Engineer’s Office, Engr. Edgar Patriana shared that revisions to the Program of Works (POW) and related engineering documents had to be undertaken in line with Presidential Directive No. PBBM-2025-1763. The directive requires national agencies and local government units to align project costs with prevailing market prices, necessitating updated computations for materials, labor, and equipment.

He added that the City Engineer’s Office has committed to submit the revised Program of Works (POW) and Detailed Architectural and Engineering Design by April 20, paving the way for project implementation and the target commencement of construction at the soonest possible time.

Councilor Imee Moreno requested that the committee be provided with copies of the updated POW and related documents, highlighting the significance of the project as a major public investment.

Meanwhile, Councilor Yvy Emano moved to invite representatives from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), along with the City Treasurer’s Office and the City Budget Office, in the next meeting to further support coordination and provide guidance on LGSF-FALGU procedures and funding processes.

Councilor Suan expressed support for the motion, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that all financial details are properly accounted for to facilitate the project’s smooth and timely implementation.

Committee Chair Councilor Al Legaspi Sr. deferred the agenda to a subsequent meeting to allow concerned offices to address necessary clarifications. (SPE/SP)