DPWH, OPABA agree on faster implementation of infra projects

LEGAZPI CITY --- The public may now expect a faster and efficient implementation of infrastructure projects in Bicol under the Duterte administration’s “Build, Build Program.”

This, after the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Office of the Presidential Assistant for Bicol Affairs (OPABA) signed earlier this week in Naga City a memorandum of understanding (MOU) aimed at forging strong cooperation among concerned agencies to speed up implementation of government projects.

Lucy Castaneda, DPWH spokesperson, in an interview yesterday said that the MOU gives OPABA the authority to conduct validation and review of projects implemented by the regional and distrct engineering offices of the DPWH in the Bicol Region.

“It will recommend termination of contracts and blacklisting of contractors violating provisions of their signed contracts and attend DPWH bidding process,” she said.

During the MOA signing, DPWH was represented by the agency’s Senior Undersecretary Rafael Yabut while OPABA was represented by its Undersecretary Marvel Clavecilla.

"This MOU is our way of saying that DPWH is transparent on its day to day operations, particularly on project implementation," Yabut said during the signing.

Yabut added that the DPWH is grateful to the OPABA for its initiative to be partner in achieving the goals and objectives of the present administration to provide effective and efficient infrastructure facilities to the public.

Witnesses to the MOU signing included DPWH 5 Regional Director Virgilio Eduarte and Assisstant Regional DirectorEsmeraldo Sarmiento.