Baguio solon warns DPWH vs ‘underestimated’ infra cost

BAGUIO CITY — Baguio City Representative Mauricio Domogan cautioned the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on Monday against proceeding with infrastructure projects in Northern Luzon that rely on underestimated cost evaluations.

Domogan said an analysis of the agency’s unit pricing revealed inaccurate figures for construction materials. He warned that the discrepancy would likely lead to substandard project quality and potential infrastructure failures.

The solon joined other Northern Luzon lawmakers in calling for a temporary suspension of public bidding for projects funded under the P6.793-trillion national budget. The group requested that the bidding process be delayed until the agency adjusts its price points to reflect current market conditions.

Domogan cited significant gaps between the agency’s estimates and local reality. While the department budgets cement at P209 per bag, the actual market price has reached P245. Furthermore, the agency estimated the cost of sand and gravel at P450 per cubic meter, far below the P1,500 valuation reported by the Baguio City Engineering Office.

“Contractors are already expressing hesitation,” Domogan said, citing a risk that projects will receive no bids if funding remains insufficient to cover basic material costs.