Contractor Pushes Back Against DPWH’s Plan for Lifetime Ban
A contractor has opposed the plan of DPWH to ban contractors proven to be involved in ghost and substandard project.
Recently, Francis Cuyop, owner of 3K Rock Engineering has spoken out against the Department of Public Works and Highways’ (DPWH) proposal to impose a lifetime ban on contractors proven to be involved in ghost projects or substandard government infrastructure.
Cuyop voiced his frustration over the issue, firmly denying any wrongdoing in their projects. His company handled the Kennon Road rock shed and rock netting projects, which recently made headlines after President Bongbong Marcos described them as useless.
The contractor defended their work, saying that the projects were not ghost projects and remain standing to this day. He questioned why they were being painted in a bad light despite completing what was required of them.
“Hindi naman ghost project at still standing naman project anong problema,” Cuyop said.
For him, the situation is unfair and damaging to contractors who follow the rules.
The company owner stressed that there should first be a thorough fact-finding investigation before any punishment is given. Imposing a lifetime ban, he said, is too harsh if there is no clear evidence of violations.
Francis maintained that his company did not break any laws and that they deserve a fair chance to explain their side.
The issue elicits discussions among contractors and stakeholders in the construction industry. Many believe that while accountability is necessary to prevent corruption and poor-quality projects, punishment should be based on solid proof and due process.
In a previous report, a contractor to replace collapsed roof at Peñaranda park
The latter called for fairness, saying that hardworking contractors should not be punished for problems beyond their control. He also expressed concern about how such a ban could affect small and medium contractors who rely on government projects for their livelihood.
“There should be a fact finding kung may violation ang contractor bago magpataw ng ganoon. I didn’t do any violation, that’s too much,” he added.
The social media users expressed their reactions to the issue:
