DPWH: Approved Revisions Increased New Senate Building Budget

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has attributed the rise in the projected cost of the New Senate Building to several approved variations in the initial plan.

Cost Revisions Explained

In a 24 Oras report by Ian Cruz, Senator Alan Peter Cayetano questioned why the DPWH revised the building plans, which led to a budget increase from the initial P833 million. The DPWH clarified that five different variation orders, worth P549 million, were approved by former Senate Committee on Accounts chairpersons, former senator Panfilo Lacson and Senator Nancy Binay.

Engineer Soledad Florencio, DPWH Project Director, explained the changes: “For example, one floor initially had three rooms but was revised to six rooms. This revision required changes to the design for the building’s integrity, including additional air conditioning units and ducting, resulting in increased costs.”

Project Delays and Material Issues

Senator Cayetano also highlighted delays caused by premature purchases of materials while essential ones were not acquired in time. He criticized the DPWH for taking too long to process construction documents.

Florencio responded, “[On the materials,] I can’t answer that because we only stand by whatever materials are delivered to us and used by the contractors. For now, I don’t know anything on this issue.”

She added that the extensive documentation (eighteen thick volumes) necessitated thorough review by the DPWH, emphasizing the project’s significance and scale.

Review and Accountability

Senate President Chiz Escudero has ordered a review of the construction costs. Cayetano stated that this review is crucial in deciding whether to continue the project with the DPWH and contractor Hilmarc’s Construction. Despite this, construction will proceed.

Florencio assured that any poor workmanship identified will be corrected with DPWH approval. “The DPWH does not accept poor workmanship from contractors. They have to adhere to the plans and specifications approved by DPWH.”

GMA Integrated News has reached out to Hilmarc’s Construction, as well as to Binay and Lacson, for comment.