Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 4) — The construction works for the unfinished 33 flood control projects in the National Capital Region were affected by “tedious” foreign-funded procurement activities, restrictions during elections and the COVID-19 pandemic, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said Tuesday.
The MMDA issued a statement commenting on the state auditors’ report that flagged its uncompleted flood control projects worth more than ₱825 million, as of December 2022.
READ: Flood control projects in Metro Manila left unfinished – COA
Acknowledging the “delay in the implementation” of the projects, MMDA Acting Chairman Atty. Don Artes said the World Bank (WB) is financing the 33 projects, making the procurement process different.“The projects underwent a tedious process and discussion with the World Bank before they were approved and implemented,” he said.“The WB reviews the bidding process done by the MMDA. Sometimes, they recommend continuation of the project rejected by our agency which in turn results in contract cost and duration revision,” he added.The official noted that the MMDA needs to secure the international lender’s approval for site relocation or project redesign.The projects also suffered delays due to the election ban and the COVID-19 pandemic, he added.Out of the 47 projects mentioned in the COA report, 27 have been completed while 12 more are set for completion this year, Artes said.Three more projects are under procurement process, while the remaining five were abandoned “as they are no longer necessary or relevant.”
