DPWH, LGUs to coordinate on implementation

CEBU, Philippines -  The Department of Public Works and Highways assured officials in Metro Cebu that they will coordinate with local government units in the implementation of projects next year.

Officials of DPWH Sixth Engineering District, who visited Mandaue City Mayor Jonas Cortes, said they will closely monitor with the cities of Mandaue and Lapu-Lapu, as well as the towns of Consolacion and Cordova.

During the meeting, they assured close coordination in the implementation of the projects.

"Dako gayud kaayo ang akong kalipay nga nakig-coordinate na nato ang mga opisyales sa DPWH kun duna sila'y projects nga ipatuman sa Mandaue," Mayor Cortes said.

Before, Cortes said the officials of DPWH implemented projects without his knowledge.

The city mayor said the city government has priority projects for implementation, and so does DPWH.

But at times, he added, they encountered problems if there was duplication of the projects.

According to Mayor Cortes, with close coordination with DPWH, they can utilize the funds available for local and national sources.

Cortes appealed to the public to be patient, citing that once the projects are completed, they would eventually benefit the city.

Earlier, Engineer Renult Ricardo of DPWH Sixth Engineering District office said 2015 is a good year for the department with a number of projects slated for implementation.

In Lapu-Lapu City, Mayor Paz Radaza maintained that DPWH should coordinate with the city government once they have projects for implementation.

Although the city is the one responsible for projects' implementation, once problems are encountered, Radaza said local officials take the public's blame.

Radaza cited the problems of traffic and other inconvenience of the riding public in her city.

Meanwhile, DPWH officials also visited the towns of Consolacion and Cordova and also assured better coordination next year.  (FREEMAN)