The Philippine Anti-Corruption Czar (PACC) released the investigation results of the Underpass or Interchanges Project at the junction of Mabuhay-Bulaong Road and the Digos-Makar National Highway in General Santos City (GenSan) calling the project a symbol of abandonment, poor planning, and economic dislocation for the citizen in GenSan.
Launched on June 23,2022 as one of GenSan’s biggest infrastructure projects, originally set for completion in September 2024 but extended to December 2025 by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) due to drainage and groundwater problems.
A total of P814.1 million was used to fund the project between 2021 and 2024 according to official government release, while DPWH stated that the project costs officially at an amount of P681 million approximately raising concerns over planning, accountability, and progress of the said project.
The inspection and consultation of the PACC revealed that there were no contractor personnel, no operating equipment, and no security evident in the site, additionally the concrete pavement was improperly laid out and the center column micropile bases were misaligned, raising concerns on its structural safety.
This also poses concerns during flooding as the site became prone to high water levels during heavy rains which were not evident before the project started.
Moreover, multiple business establishments within the area of the construction site closed permanently while reports from the investigation also showed heavy financial losses due to lower access and constant traffic in the area.
Materials and equipment used for the construction also became a concern for safety of the motorists and pedestrians as there were no safety barriers and warning or hazard signs to serve as a warning for the people.
In line with this, the PACC formally recommended the DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan to direct the contractor and submit the required documents and contact the personnel assigned to the project and ensure that the investigation will contribute to the speeding up of the project’s completion.
“The people of General Santos deserve answers and results, not excuses, this is more than just a delayed project—it has become an economic and social disaster. Businesses have closed, streets are flooded, traffic is unbearable, and trust has been betrayed.” said PACC Chairman Doc. Louie F. Ceniza.
Ceniza also called for an audit of funds versus accomplishments, the relief of DPWH officials responsible, and decisive corrective action, emphasizing that accountability must be enforced and must be completed without further delay for the benefit of the people that they should serve.
