Legislative bldg rehabilitation cost questioned

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu City Councilor Nestor Archival Sr. has questioned the close to P20 million budget quotation submitted by the Department of Engineering and Public Works (DEPW) for the proposed rehabilitation of the City Hall Legislative Building.

Archival questioned the alleged lack of plan indicating the scope of dimensions in the Program of Works and Estimates.

DEPW representative Lilibeth del Mar told the members of the City Council during an executive session yesterday that the rehabilitation works include repainting, replacement of the aluminum cladding at the rooftop, installation of wall mount cabinets in the electrical rooms, and electrical works. Based on the resolution sponsored by Councilor Jerry Guardo, chairman of the committee on infrastructure, the proposed rehabilitation would cost around P19,828,121.

But Archival noted some unnecessary inclusions in the budget such as the acquisition of permits. According to him, it is highly questionable for the contractor to charge the city for the permits of its own building.

Del Mar explained that the permits were included in their general requirements. She added it will be intended for the building permit to commence the renovation.

"Nganong ato mang bayran ang contractor para sa Cebu City," Archival asked.

He suggested streamlining all the construction works in the contract. Archival also questioned the 65 sets of RGB lights that would cost around P10 million.

"Naunsa mo? Ngano gud tawon magbutang tag lights? Giingnan na ta sa COA (Commission on Audit) nga usik-usik ta’g kuryente," said Archival.

"That is very expensive, P10 million...nindot man ning naay lights ba, but is it necessary?" he added.

Guardo said that his resolution was just for the purpose of allocating the amount but they have yet to bid out the project.

Del Mar explained that the lightning will be attached to a computer software that will control the lights.

Acting Vice Mayor Donaldo Hontiveros defended the lighting system, saying this could be added tourist attraction. He, however, said that DEPW should be ready to justify the cost including the anticipated electrical cost onwards —/FPL (FREEMAN)