Zamboanga: The Zamboanga Port will maintain its regular operations despite the cancellation and upcoming rebidding of the contract for constructing a modern passenger terminal building (PTB), as announced by the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA).

According to Philippines News Agency, PPA Spokesperson Eunice Samonte stated that the rebidding for the PTB construction might take place this year. Samonte mentioned that the rebidding process would follow the standard procurement posting procedures used for other projects.

The initial plan for the PTB was to develop a modern terminal in Mindanao with air-conditioning and additional facilities to enhance the convenience of maritime passengers. However, the PPA officially canceled its contract with MAC Builders, Inc. on Monday due to extended delays since the project's award in 2021.

PPA Assistant General Manager for Engineering, James Gantalao, disclosed that MAC Builders had been paid PHP82,861,701, which accounts for 18 percent of the contract price for 56 percent of the project's physical completion. Gantalao noted that due to the contract termination, the contractor would not be able to collect the remaining balance of PHP189,960,648 for their completed work.

Although the funds paid to the contractor will not be reimbursed to the PPA, Gantalao assured that the funds utilized were from the PPA's corporate funds and not taxpayer money. This funding is generated from PPA's revenue as a government-owned and -controlled corporation.

Gantalao highlighted that the contractor incurred losses as they spent more funds than they received. He also clarified that the contractor did not receive any down payment or mobilization payment, nor did the PPA release any advance payment, ensuring that sufficient funds remain available to complete the project as planned and provide quality services to the public.