Tulfo slams construction firms for delayed, defective P1.4B infra projects

Senator Raffy Tulfo has criticized Vicente T. Lao Construction for the significant delays and defects in the P657-million Mabuhay Underpass National Highway project in General Santos City, which began in June 2022 and was due in September 2024.

The underpass project remains unfinished and exhibits serious flaws, including prolonged inactivity, improperly aligned column bases, uneven road surfaces, and unsafe conditions for commuters.

Residents have reported worsened traffic congestion due to poor traffic management related to the project, which they consider unnecessary and poorly planned.

Tulfo also questioned the rationale behind installing LED lights, suspecting it was an extravagant use of public funds.

Separately, Senator Tulfo questioned the failed construction of the P802-million Aganan Flyover in Pavia, Iloilo, which began on July 6, 2020, and remains unfinished.

The soil testing for the flyover was awarded to United Technology Consolidated Partnership (UTCP), the same firm involved in the collapsed Cabagan-Sta. Maria Bridge in Isabela.

DPWH Central Office Bureau of Design noted UTCP made errors in assessing foundation depth, leading to project delays and severe traffic congestion.

Although P308 million of the P802 million budget remains, an additional P275 to P300 million may be needed due to revisions stemming from UTCP's faulty soil testing.