The construction of the new seven-story Negros Occidental Provincial Administration Center (PAC) along Aguinaldo Street in Bacolod City has completely ground to a halt, Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson confirmed on Thursday, August 13.
The close to P1-billion project being built by Dynamic Builders and Construction Co. was targeted for completion in July, Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz said. Construction began in 2022 .
“Unfortunately, as everyone can see, work has completely stopped,” Lacson said. “From what I gathered from their representatives, financial problems are the main reason. I have yet to hear from them again to see if there is any improvement, but right now, it seems stalled.”
Despite the setback, Lacson noted that the structure is nearly finished. He clarified that the provincial government does not owe the contractor anything. Asked if penalties would be imposed for the delay, the governor stated they would strictly follow the terms of the contract.
CONTRACTOR CLAIMS FUNDING SECURED
Shortly after the governor’s statement, Dynamic Builders assured the public that the project will move forward.
In a statement issued Thursday afternoon through consultant Nelson Infante, the firm affirmed its “full commitment to proceed with the construction of the Provincial Administration Center.”
“The company has secured adequate funding to ensure the uninterrupted implementation of works and the completion of the project within the current year,” the statement read. “We remain steadfast in upholding quality standards, compliance with all applicable regulations, and timely delivery of this important public infrastructure.”
UNRESOLVED OLD PAC LEASE
Meanwhile, uncertainty continues to surround the development of the old PAC site. Dynamic Builders won the lease of the property for during the administration of former Governor Alfredo Marañon Jr.
No development has begun, and no lease payments have been made to date.
Diaz said that the provincial government has already sent formal demand letters to cancel the agreement.
It should be terminated and offered for another partnership if they do not intend to develop the area, Diaz said.*
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