DTI files raps vs 8 contractors

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has filed charges against eight contractors for their reported involvement in anomalies in flood control projects.

- By LOUELLA DESIDERIO

In a statement, the DTI said that in the exercise of its regulatory authority under Executive Order 913 and other relevant trade and industry laws, it filed charges against Legacy Construction Corp., Centerways Construction & Development Inc., Alpha & Omega General Contractor & Development Corp., MG Samidan Construction, L.R. Tiqui Builders Inc., QM Builders, EGB Construction Corp. and Hi-Tone Construction and Development Corp. for their possible violation of construction industry regulations.

They were among the top 15 contractors that got the lion's share of all flood control projects undertaken in the past three years, as disclosed by President Marcos in August.

With the filing of charges, the DTI is authorized to take immediate preventive actions, including suspending the licenses of the contractors.

Trade Secretary Cristina Roque emphasized that the recent action reflects the department's strong commitment to 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.

Roque said the move is part of the DTI's ongoing efforts to ensure compliance with the law and promote fair competition in the construction industry.

The DTI said it is also set to file formal charges against eight other firms 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 Corp. and St. Timothy Construction Corp. for their alleged participation in similar flood control project anomalies.