Baguio: The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has issued a suspension and a show cause order to six members of the Bids and Awards Committee-Technical Working Group of the Baguio City District Engineering Office (DEO). This action, announced on Friday, comes in response to accusations of irregularities in the bidding process for infrastructure projects.

According to Philippines News Agency, Secretary Vince Dizon has instructed the DEO personnel, led by district engineer Rene Zarate, to address accusations of rigging, fixing, and manipulating the bidding process. The memorandum dated September 26 specifically names Cesario Rillera, Nora Delos Santos, Jessie Ramos, Frances Vincent Saloria, and Frigilda Legaspi as individuals required to respond to the allegations.

The memorandum highlights a complaint suggesting the involvement of these individuals in manipulating the bidding process to benefit certain contractors or companies. These entities are allegedly linked to spouses and family members of some DEO employees, with claims of receiving one to three percent of the total contract or project cost.

The six DPWH employees have been given a five-day window to explain their involvement and avoid potential administrative charges. Secretary Dizon has emphasized that failure to respond within this timeframe will result in a decision being made based on the available records and evidence.

In a related matter, district engineer Rene Zarate previously opted out of attending a Baguio City Council forum investigating claims of overpricing in several infrastructure projects. Zarate cited a scheduling conflict with a regional staff meeting as the reason for his absence.