Department of Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya. Joseph Vidal/PRIB
Amid speculations that the P4.2-billion contract for the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) Line 3 will be awarded to a firm linked to an administration ally, the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) on Thursday maintained that no politics will be involved in its procurement process.
DOTC spokesperson Michael Arthur Sagcal said allegations that Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya will favor a consortium supposedly being brokered by Liberal Party mate Marlo Dela Cruz, chair of longtime MRT contractor PH trams, have no basis.
“There is no basis for such speculation and rumor-mongering, as the DOTC strictly complies with bidding rules. We limited this procurement to well-reputed foreign firms with established rail maintenance expertise, and will make appropriate announcements after award,” Sagcal said.
According to earlier media reports, certain lawmakers raised fears that the contract for MRT’s rehabilitation might be used by the administration to raise funds for the campaign of its candidates in the 2016 elections.
Sagcal denied the allegations, saying that the transportation department was focused on delivering basic services to the commuting public.
“We categorically deny any insinuation of politics having a part in our projects, as we are focused solely on the delivery of safe and efficient services to the public,” he added. Yuji Vincent Gonzales, INQUIRER.net/CDG
RELATED STORIES
Prototype of new MRT-3 trains arrives in PH
DBM releases rehab fund for MRT-3