‘Finish infra projects to prevent delay of services’

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang has reminded all government entities to ensure the timely completion of infrastructure projects to prevent delays in the delivery of basic services.

The directive is contained in Memorandum Circular No. 57 signed by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea by authority of President Duterte last Feb. 7.

“Unfinished government infrastructure projects cause great inconvenience and serious damage to the prejudice of the general public and adversely affect the delivery of basic services,” the memorandum circular read.

All departments, bureaus and offices, state-run firms, state universities and colleges and local government units were ordered to “strictly observe the laws, issuances and policies pertaining to the timely completion of government infrastructure projects, including the imposition of appropriate sanctions for infractions and violations.”

Officials were directed to ensure that all measures promoting safety and reducing public inconvenience are in place while undertaking projects.

Presidential spokesman Salvador Panelo said delays in some infrastructure projects had prompted President Duterte to issue the directive.

“There have been delays in the implementation of projects and as we know delays will hamper services that are supposed to be provided by the government,” Panelo said at a press briefing yesterday.

He said the delays were caused by legal restraints, bureaucratic red tape and corruption.– With Janvic Mateo