Capitol Resource Building: Construction continues sans P194M mobilization

CEBU, Philippines — Even without the approval of the provincial treasurer for the release of the 15 percent mobilization fee amounting to P194 million, the construction of the proposed 20-storey Capitol resource building still continues.

Governor-elect Gwendolyn F. Garcia had already declared that the project is not part of her program of government and that she never agreed to it.

Through her counsels, Garcia has warned outgoing Governor Hilario Davide III and the department heads not to further proceed with the project.

Provincial Treasurer Roy Salubre had disapproved the release of the money.

Provincial Engineer Hector Jamora said the non-release of the mobilization fee, which also serves as advance payment to the contractor WT Construction, Inc., would not have much impact, since the construction is still ongoing.

"Prerogative lang sa kontraktor nga maka-claim alang sa advance payment niini.  But it does not mean nga if dili siya katagaan og unsa mahunong siya na sa iyang project. Ongoing man ang project diha," he said.

The mobilization fee is normally provided to the contractor to fund for the salary of the construction workers and the purchase of the materials needed.

Jamora said the advance payment is considered “deductible” in the contractor’s “progress billing.”

Jamora believes that the WT Construction may continue to work on the project, since the company’s financial capability is stable.

"Base sa iyang financial, dako ra kaayo ang WT nga financial capability niya," he added.

At present, the construction has started with the excavation phase for the structure’s foundation and sheet piling.

"Well sa amo diri, naa man ang consultant namo.  Padayon jud siya kay under contract mana niya, siya man jud and contracting party."  — Bonen A. Clarin (FREEMAN)