Sen. Tulfo files bill to prevent conflict of interest in contractor licensing

Senator Erwin Tulfo has filed Senate Bill 1373 to strengthen regulations on contractor licenses, addressing concerns about conflict of interest within the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board (PCAB).

The proposed measure aims to amend the Contractor's License Law (Republic Act No. 4566), which Tulfo stated is being abused.

Specifically, the bill seeks to disqualify PCAB members if they own or are officials of companies with government transactions.

This action follows allegations linking some PCAB members, including engineers Erni Baggao and Arthur Escalante, to anomalous flood control projects and a potential conflict of interest.

Tulfo highlighted that the current structure allows for self-regulation among competitors, leading to a lack of oversight and accountability.

He asserted that the situation represents a state-sanctioned conflict of interest, violating Republic Act No. 6713, the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.

Tulfo expressed concern that PCAB officials securing substantial government projects makes it difficult for the board to investigate itself impartially.

He believes the Filipino people deserve honesty and fairness, not a system where regulators also benefit from government projects under the guise of legality.