Capiz dad inclined to believe whistle-blower's expose vs. DPWH
ROXAS CITY – A member of the Sangguniang Panlalawigam (SP) here said the recent expose of a whistle-blower regarding alleged anomalies in Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) projects may have a color of truth following the suspension of 58 construction firms for certain violations.
Board Member Rommel Lastimoso in a privilege speech last Thursday was referring to the allegations of a certain Gene Divino hurled against the DPWH and construction firm Kirskat Venture a few months back.
Kirskat Venture is one of the 58 construction firms reportedly barred by the DPWH from participating in government projects for one year for violation of R.A. 9481 otherwise known as the Government Procurement Reform Law and Department Order No, 35, Series of 2008.
“If this is the same firm, plus DPWH Special Committee’s findings which led to the inclusion of Kirskat Venture in the list of suspended DPWH contractors is correct, then it is now clear that Mr. Gene Divino’s revelation has the color of truth,” Lastimoso said.
Lastimoso, who is the son of former PNP Chief Roberto “Bobby” Lastimoso, said that Divino’s expose revealed that various anomalies characterized the processing, awarding and implementation of DPWH projects particularly construction of road/highways in the second district of Capiz adding that there was a monopoly made by the said construction firm.
On the other hand, Engr. Hector Gargoles clarified that what had been said by Divino is not true since Kirskat Venture is only one of eight construction firms that undertake projects in the second district.