MANILA — The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is backing greater use of public-private partnerships (PPPs) for major and technically complex government infrastructure projects as it works to reform internal systems and address concerns over delays and construction quality.
Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon said PPPs could provide a more reliable mechanism for delivering big-ticket projects, particularly government buildings, while reforms aimed at improving the DPWH’s systems and institutional culture are still underway.
“I fully agree with what Ombudsman Boying Remulla said – that until the internal systems and culture within the DPWH are thoroughly reformed, Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) remain the far better option for large-scale, complex infrastructure like government buildings,” Dizon said.
Dizon was referring to Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla’s position that PPP arrangements may be preferable for major and technically demanding government projects.
The public works chief said tapping private-sector participation could provide greater assurance that projects would be completed on schedule and within expected cost and construction quality standards.
His remarks came as he raised concerns over existing government building projects, including the delayed Bureau of Immigration building, whose design he sharply criticized.
“The design is so poorly executed that the driveway can barely accommodate normal-sized vehicles. This is unacceptable,” Dizon said.
Dizon also said he would discuss the ongoing National Bureau of Investigation headquarters project with NBI Director Melvin Matibag.
He said the government could consider stopping the current project and exploring alternatives that would better meet the NBI’s requirements.
Dizon also threw his support behind Remulla’s proposed reforms, saying the DPWH would continue coordinating with the Office of the Ombudsman while he remains public works secretary.
The push for PPPs comes as the DPWH undertakes efforts to overhaul its internal systems and improve the delivery, quality and accountability of government infrastructure projects./PN
