Bunkhouses in Tacloban Pass DPWH Inspection

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Rogelio Singson gave a passing mark after he inspected the bunkhouses in Tacloban City that was built for Yolanda survivors following allegations that the shelters were overpriced and made of substandard materials.

The Public Works secretary, upon inspection, found that the built shelters are under the specifications set by the DPWH, Gma News Online reported.

Reports added, however, that some substandard construction materials like thin galvanized iron sheets were seen in the site prompting Singson to warn contractors against using them.

Earlier, Gma News Online, citing the Philippine Daily Inquirer, reported alleged overpricing and substandard work on the construction of the bunkhouses. The daily national broadsheet cited information from the group Camp Coordination and Camp Management (CCCM).

Meanwhile, Eastern Samar Rep. Ben Evardone, has denied any knowledge of the alleged overpricing of the temporary shelters and called against “politicizing” the ongoing rehabilitation efforts in typhoon-hit areas.

Gma News Online reported Evardone, in a text message, saying “I believe Secretary Singson’s statement that there [is] no overpricing. And the rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts of the government should not be politicized.” He added “I don’t know anything about that and I am not involved.”

Reports said Evardone appealed that instead of doubting contractors in Yolanda affected areas, the public should be grateful as contractors are forgoing profit to help victims.

The lawmaker has said it was the DPWH that asked for volunteers in the construction of bunkhouses at a cost set by the DPWH without any profit for the contractor.

He added that DPWH appealed to civic minded contractors to do their share in the reconstruction and rehabilitation program adding that that is the reason why contractors from other regions went to Leyte and Samar, Gma News Online reported.

Source: Gma News Online

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