Manila: Justice Secretary Jesus Remulla has announced that the government may seek a new contractor for the PHP2.4-billion National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) headquarters project. This decision follows the revelation that the current firms involved, belonging to the Discaya family, had their licenses revoked. Remulla emphasized that the government has no alternative but to find a different builder, as the existing contractor cannot continue without a valid license. The project, located on Taft Avenue in Manila, has seen only its foundation completed since construction commenced in 2022.
According to Philippines News Agency, NBI Director Jaime Santiago has initiated an investigation into the situation after discovering the contractors' familial ties to the Discayas. Santiago clarified that while no wrongdoing is currently alleged, the investigation aims to ensure the structural integrity of the new building. Concerns have been raised about potential substandard materials, which could pose safety risks, especially in the event of an earthquake.
In coordination with Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon, the NBI is assessing whether to halt construction during the investigation. Simultaneously, findings from a separate NBI probe revealed rigged bidding processes in several Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) flood control projects. The investigation, conducted with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), uncovered that eight of the 15 contractors involved in these projects shared common officers and directors, suggesting collusion to manipulate bidding outcomes.
While Santiago refrained from naming the implicated entities, the investigation highlights a widespread scheme to circumvent fair competition and secure government contracts unlawfully. The NBI intends to file charges swiftly for the most straightforward offenses, though Santiago acknowledged that more intricate cases would demand further examination.
Justice Secretary Remulla reaffirmed the commitment to pursue evidence against the implicated firms, as highlighted by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., vowing that the investigation would be thorough and impartial.
