The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said it will release a full list of contractors who may face license revocation, pending submission of documents by the former Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board (PCAB) Executive Director Herbert Matienzo for a comprehensive review.
The DTI said in a statement on Thursday the review “aims to uphold transparency and accountability following PCAB’s board resolution revoking the licenses of nine construction firms owned by businesswoman Sarah Discaya.”
“This also reflects DTI’s commitment to ensure fair practices and protect industry integrity in government procurement and licensing,” it added.
The announcement came as senators called for a “complete overhaul” of the PCAB, a regulatory body under the DTI, following allegations of its role in corruption leading to substandard and “ghost” flood control projects.
Sen. Panfilo Lacson highlighted the need for reform at the PCAB, which he described as a “low-key yet corrupt-ridden regulatory body.”
“The PCAB has been in tandem with the Department of Public Works and Highways, methodically punching us in the gut, providing the first of a one-two-punch, thus knocking out our hard-earned tax payments,” Lacson said.
The senator’s statement followed Matienzo’s resignation, which Trade Secretary Cristina Roque attributed to personal reasons.
Sen. Erwin Tulfo, however, said the resignation was expected, citing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s and DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon’s drive to rid the department of “misfits.”
Tulfo emphasized that Matienzo’s resignation should not absolve him of liability. “Even though this was expected, it must be ensured that all documents that can be used as evidence regarding the alleged anomalies in flood control projects are secured and kept.”
“Just because he resigned doesn’t mean he is absolved. The investigation will continue on them even if they are no longer in their positions,” Tulfo added.
Lacson had exposed several dubious practices at the PCAB, including “accreditation for sale,” a conflict of interest involving at least two board members who own construction companies that have secured government contracts, and alleged extortion schemes targeting contractors.
Meanwhile, DTI’s internal review, led by Trade Secretary Cristina Roque, is a move toward transparency and accountability.
To ensure “order, transparency, and accountability is restored,” Roque has placed CIAP and its implementing boards, including PCAB, under her direct supervision.
The DTI emphasized that the inquiry is part of its broader commitment to protect industry stakeholders and consumers and uphold high standards of governance in public service, recognizing PCAB’s critical role in regulating and accrediting contractors to ensure projects meet legal and quality standards.
Tulfo noted that the resignations of officials like Matienzo present an opportunity for them to disclose everything they know.
