Solon seeks probe into mishandled flood control projects

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Cagayan de Oro 2nd District Representative Rufus B. Rodriguez has called on the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to launch a thorough investigation into poorly executed flood control projects in his district, warning that contractors found liable will be blacklisted.

Rodriguez’s call comes in the aftermath of typhoon "Crising" and is in line with the Marcos administration’s push to strengthen infrastructure oversight and disaster preparedness.

“In our city’s second district, we are ready to have the DPWH Evaluation Committee assess and investigate which flood control projects were not properly implemented. Contractors proven at fault will definitely be blacklisted,” Rodriguez told the Daily Tribune.

While expressing full support for the administration’s programs in healthcare, education and anti-corruption, Rodriguez admitted there have been delays in some previously announced infrastructure initiatives. Still, he remains optimistic these will be completed within President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s term.

One of the major highlights for the lawmaker was the inclusion of the 428-kilometer Mindanao Transport Connectivity Improvement Project (MTCIP) in President Marcos Jr.’s recent State of the Nation Address (SoNA). The massive infrastructure initiative, which will connect Cagayan de Oro to Davao and General Santos City, is expected to receive full government backing.

“We’re glad the President specifically mentioned the Mindanao Transport Connectivity Improvement Project and that the government is ready to fund it as soon as possible,” Rodriguez said.

The P37.007-billion MTCIP, to be funded through a World Bank loan and national government counterpart funding, includes five major components: road improvements, corridor upgrades, institutional development, project management and contingency support.

The detailed engineering design is slated for 2026 to 2027, with civil works expected to begin in 2027 and wrap up by 2031. Once completed, the project aims to streamline the movement of goods, improve access to markets for agricultural producers, and cut travel time for both residents and businesses. A performance-based maintenance strategy will be implemented to ensure the roads remain in top condition for the long term.

Rodriguez believes the MTCIP will be a game-changer for Cagayan de Oro, positioning it as a vital trade and transport hub not only for Northern Mindanao but for the entire island.