Senators on Monday criticized the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board (PCAB) for allowing blacklisted construction firms to secure new licenses and continue joining government projects. Lawmakers urged stronger oversight and closer coordination with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to curb recurring anomalies.
During the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee inquiry into alleged irregularities in flood-control projects, Senate Minority Leader Vicente “Tito” Sotto III cited the cases of St. Gerrard Construction and St. Timothy Construction, both owned by Sarah Discaya.
Sotto revealed that St. Gerrard was suspended in 2015 and blacklisted by the DPWH in 2020, yet its PCAB license remains valid until January 2026. Meanwhile, St. Timothy, linked to deficiencies in a ₱96.4-million Bulacan River Project in 2023, was granted a license valid until 2027.
“I want to amend the law creating the PCAB, to put more power and strong coordination with the DPWH and not just with the DTI,” Sotto said, referring to Republic Act No. 4566, or the Contractors’ License Law of 1965.
Senator Erwin Tulfo accused PCAB of turning a blind eye to firms bypassing sanctions.
“Na-blacklist itong kumpanya na ito, gagamit ng ibang pangalan para makapasok ulit. You hear that but you don’t investigate,” Tulfo told PCAB chairperson Pericles Dakay.
Dakay defended PCAB, saying it is a quasi-judicial body that has already summoned 15 contractors flagged by the President and has preventively suspended their authority to bid for flood-control projects.
“We are seriously investigating and conducting hearings at PCAB,” Dakay said.
However, senators expressed frustration over the lack of decisive action, noting that no licenses have been revoked despite repeated findings of irregularities.
Discaya, present during the hearing, faced questioning over her alleged control of multiple construction companies despite claims of divestment. Senator Risa Hontiveros said at least nine firms were traced back to her, while Tulfo pressed her on whether licenses were being rented out to other parties.
The Blue Ribbon inquiry, chaired by Senator Rodante Marcoleta, continues its investigation into alleged anomalies under the theme “Philippines Under Water.”
