Bulacan: The Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) recently filed criminal charges for bid rigging with the Department of Justice (DOJ) against contractors and officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) concerning irregular flood control projects in Bulacan province.

According to Philippines News Agency, the cases involve three flood control projects bid out by the DPWH Bulacan First District Engineering Office. PCC Competition Enforcement Office Assistant Director Genevieve Jusi stated during a press briefing that investigations are focused on several contractors and public officials, though specific names have not been disclosed.

Jusi noted that her office identified potential violations of Section 14 (a)(2) of Republic Act No. 10667, also known as the Philippine Competition Act. She elaborated, "This is bid rigging. Bid rigging is prohibited under the Philippine Competition Act. It involves collusion between contractors or bidders to manipulate the bidding process."

Justice Undersecretary Jesse Hermogenes Andres commented on the matter, indicating that the DOJ will review the PCC's referral regarding possible violations of the Competition Act, specifically related to bid rigging. "We will subpoena the respondents in due time when we are ready to conduct the preliminary investigation," the DOJ official stated.