A Philippine senator has filed a bill to prevent excessive pricing and ensure transparency for public works infrastructure projects.
Senator Francis G. Senate Bill No. 1467, filed by Escudero, proposes a Detailed Unit Price Analysis (DUPA) system that would ensure that appropriations for government projects reflect actual market costs and are supported by technical documents.
The proposed measure would also require a detailed breakdown of labor, equipment, materials and other expenses before it could be included in the national expenditure plan.
“The cost of a project cannot be easily estimated. There must be a basis, there must be details and there must be accountability,” he said.
“When the price of every nail, cement and service is clear, government spending becomes more honest. People can better see where each peso goes,” Mr. Escudero said.
The Bill also proposes the creation of a national reference manual, containing norms and methodologies for preparing and updating DUPAs.
It also mandates capacity building programs for engineers, budget officers and auditors.
He said, “By establishing a uniform and transparent method of estimating appropriations, this measure can prevent dishonest budget practices, promote fiscal discipline, create fiscal space for other priority programs and projects and provide technical and financial safeguards against corruption and inefficiencies in public spending.”
The proposed measure also imposes permanent disqualification from holding public office for public officials who falsify data under the system.
Infrastructure projects under the Public Works Department are being scrutinized due to discrepancies in funds allocated for flood control projects, where lawmakers and public works officials have allegedly siphoned off billions. – Adrian H. Halili
