The Commission on Audit (COA) recently released a report highlighting delays in the implementation of two critical infrastructure projects in the Municipality of Kawit, Cavite under the leadership of Mayor Angelo Aguinaldo.

The projects, totaling P5,670,156.70, were intended to enhance local infrastructure and benefit the community. 

However, due to procedural lapses, the timely use and enjoyment of these projects were compromised, COA said.

The Delayed Projects

Road Improvement Project: This project aimed to enhance road connectivity within the municipality, benefiting commuters, motorists, and pedestrians. 

Unfortunately, it faced significant delays due to issues related to site location.

Public Market Rehabilitation: The rehabilitation of the public market was another crucial project that suffered setbacks. 

The market serves as a vital hub for local commerce, and its timely completion was essential for the economic well-being of the community, COA said.

Root Cause: Lack of Detailed Engineering

The COA report highlighted a critical factor contributing to the delays: the absence of detailed engineering studies. 

According to Section 17.6 of the Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act (RA) No. 9184, no bidding or contract award for infrastructure projects should occur without sufficient detailed engineering investigations, surveys, and designs. 

These studies ensure technical viability, adherence to land use guidelines, and compliance with existing laws.

Annex “A” of the Revised IRR of R.A. No. 9184 outlines the prerequisites for detailed engineering. 

It emphasizes that such engineering work must be based on feasibility or preliminary studies that establish project viability. 

Key activities include surveys, site investigations, and design plan preparation.

Municipal Engineering Office Under Scrutiny

The COA report specifically pointed out the Municipal Engineering Office’s role in the delays. 

Had detailed engineering been conducted promptly, the challenges related to site location could have been addressed, COA pointed out.

Instead, variation orders submitted by the Office of the Municipal Engineer prolonged the projects’ implementation.

Impact on Beneficiaries

The consequences of these delays were felt by the community. 

Target beneficiaries, including residents, businesses, and commuters, were deprived of the timely use and enjoyment of improved roads and a rehabilitated public market. 

The delay not only affected convenience but also hindered economic growth and local development.

Recommendations and Accountability

The COA report recommends that the Municipal Engineering Office adhere strictly to the provisions of RA No. 9184. It emphasizes the importance of detailed engineering studies before project implementation. 

Additionally, the COA calls for greater accountability and transparency in managing public funds and infrastructure projects.

Local officials and stakeholders are urged to take corrective measures promptly. 

“The timely completion of infrastructure projects is essential for the well-being of the community, and adherence to established guidelines ensures efficient and effective utilization of public resources,” COA said.