Regulator denies selling accreditation, blames scammers posing as PCAB

Metro Manila, Philippines - The agency responsible for issuing licenses to contractors has denied involvement in the alleged “accreditation for sale” exposed by Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson.

During the plenary session on Aug. 27, Lacson said private contractors had approached him and claimed they were offered accreditation by the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board (PCAB) - which is attached to the Department of Trade and Industry - for a fee beginning at ₱2 million.

“Sila na yung bahala sa bank certificate and other requirements [PCAB would take care of the bank certificate and other requirements],” Lacson said.

This was the latest in a series of supposed irregularities in flood control projects, where contractors have been accused of cornering billions in government contracts—allegedly in collusion with public officials.

In a statement issued Thursday, Aug. 28, PCAB said it “has noted with concern” the reports of supposed irregularities in the licensing and accreditation of contractors.

”We wish to assure the public and our stakeholders that the integrity of the PCAB licensing system remains our foremost priority,” the agency said.

“PCAB licenses are not for sale,” it added.

The agency said it has never authorized any individual or group to act on its behalf or to guarantee contractor accreditation in exchange for money. It did, however, acknowledge that it has been targeted by scammers.

“Unfortunately, we are aware of the challenges presented by the existence of certain individuals and entities, particularly on social media, misrepresenting themselves as PCAB personnel or offering “shortcuts” for a fee,” it said.

“PCAB has been proactive in addressing this issue—conducting investigations, reporting fake social media accounts, and coordinating with the proper authorities to protect the public and the industry,” the agency added.

PCAB urged the public to transact only through official channels and to report any suspicious offers or misrepresentations.

Lacson earlier said he would raise questions to PCAB during the next Senate hearing on the alleged anomalies in flood control projects.