ILOILO City – What was supposed to be a simple commuter facility has turned into a lightning rod for public outrage after a newly built waiting shed in Barangay Katilingban, Molo district was revealed to have cost nearly P800,000, prompting questions over transparency and prudent spending by the city government.
According to the construction billboard on-site, the project — implemented by the Iloilo City Engineering Office and completed in 25 days by Abelardo Builders and Supply — carried a total contract price of P798,525.47.
However, residents were quick to point out that key details such as the funding source and project start date could not be found in the billboard, fueling concern over how public funds were spent.
“Ordinary citizens who pass by can’t help but compare the structure to its price tag. Without clear details on funding, people are left wondering if the cost really matches what we see,” said a concerned commuter.
The structure, located along a busy thoroughfare in Barangay Katilingban, was intended to provide shelter for waiting passengers. Instead, it has become a talking point about accountability in small-scale government projects.
Calls are now mounting for the City Engineering Office to explain the breakdown of the P798,000 expense and the bidding or procurement process that led to the project’s approval.
Transparency advocates argue that even minor infrastructure projects must be held to the same standard of scrutiny as multimillion-peso undertakings.
“Public money is public trust — and every peso spent, no matter how small the project, deserves to be justified,” one resident said.
As of press time, City Hall officials have yet to issue an official statement to address the growing public clamor for clarity./PN
