CICC builder vows to fast track project

The contractor of the P100 million substructure of the Cebu International Convention Center yesterday assured Gov. Gwen Garcia to fast track the project in preparation for the 12th Association of Southeast Asian Nation Summit in December.

Willy Te, president of WT Construction, gave the assurance to the governor after the signing of the contract for the implementation of the project at the latter's office yesterday afternoon. WT gave the lowest bid for the project at P84.5 million.

After the contract signing, the issuance of the notice to proceed with the project would follow.

Under Republic Act 9184, otherwise known the Government Procurement Reformed Act, the notice to proceed with the project should be issued to the winning bidder not later than seven calendar days from the date of the contract's approval.

With this latest development, the governor is confident that the project will be completed in time for the ASEAN Summit in December.

Garcia also directed Apollo Enriquez, Capitol consultant for infrastructure and development, to closely monitor the implementation of the project.

Garcia said the completion of the project would benefit not only Mandaue City but also the whole province.

On the other hand, Mandaue City Mayor Thadeo Ouano perceives the construction of the CICC in Mandaue City as catalyst for development.

Ouano and Garcia signed yesterday morning a memorandum of agreement for the use of the 3.8-hectare land at the reclamation area worth P.5 billion.

Under the agreement, the city government and the provincial government will jointly operate and maintain CICC only for its intended purpose.

Aside from the CICC construction, Ouano said the National Economic and Development Authority has endorsed the Cebu International Trade and Exhibition Center for funding to Japan International Cooperation Agency.

He added that Cebu Doctors' University has started its construction of its building in the area to accommodate 8,000 students and staff.

In addition, an Information Technology Center will be developed to accommodate a call center while the Sacred Heart School will start the construction of its building in barangay Canduman, the mayor said.

With the upcoming ASEAN Summit, Ouano said there is a need for them to work together to ensure the success of the international event. - Jose P. Sollano and Cristina C. Birondo