DPWH to Implement ‘Green Lane’ for Contractors in Bid to Combat Corruption
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is moving to establish a streamlined “green lane” system for contractors, aiming to attract legitimate firms back to government infrastructure projects and rebuild public trust following recent corruption allegations. The initiative, announced this week, seeks to expedite the processing of requirements and payments, addressing long-standing complaints of bureaucratic hurdles and potential extortion.
DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon expressed the agency’s openness to collaborating with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) on the project, citing the success of a similar “green lane” program implemented by the Board of Investments (BOI) for strategic investments. “There’s no reason why One can’t do that in the DPWH,” Dizon said, according to reports. “We can have a green lane… so that we can speed up the requirements, processing of payments.”
The move comes amid growing scrutiny of the DPWH, particularly following allegations of corruption involving flood control contracts. Public construction experienced a significant decline – a 42 percent drop in the fourth quarter of last year – which officials have linked to the controversy and a resulting hesitancy among legitimate contractors to participate in government bids.
Dizon emphasized the need for a more seamless and hassle-free process for contractors, acknowledging that some firms have faced undue pressure and requests for illicit payments. “We know that sometimes you are being hassled. That is being done because there are people who are asking (something) from you,” he reportedly stated during a meeting with the PCCI. The green lane is intended to mitigate these issues by removing opportunities for corruption and ensuring a more transparent process.
PCCI President Ferdinand Ferrer echoed the sentiment, stating that the group initially proposed the green lane to facilitate the immediate restart of infrastructure projects with reputable contractors. The initiative aims to encourage greater competition and participation in government projects, ultimately leading to more efficient and effective infrastructure development.
The proposed system, modeled after Executive Order No. 18 establishing the BOI’s green lane, will focus on accelerating the often-tedious procurement process and payment schedules. Officials hope this will attract major construction companies, such as Megawide Construction Corp. And EEI Corp., to bid on government-led projects.
The DPWH’s efforts to overhaul its procurement process represent a significant attempt to address systemic issues within the agency. Recent scandals have prompted a reevaluation of existing procedures and a renewed commitment to transparency and accountability. Dizon has vowed to restore public confidence in the department by bringing in “legitimate contractors” and creating a more predictable and efficient environment for businesses.
Beyond the green lane initiative, Secretary Dizon has also ordered a review of flood control projects and a broader effort to tackle systemic corruption within the DPWH. This commitment to reform signals a determined effort to address longstanding issues and rebuild trust with the public and the construction industry.
The PCCI has pledged its full support in establishing the green lane system, recognizing the critical role of infrastructure development in driving economic growth. The initiative is expected to be a key focus of collaboration between the DPWH and the business community in the coming months.
