By Xander Ledesma
Officials from Cebu City’s Department of Engineering and Public Works (DEPW), Cebu City Medical Center (CCMC), and a project contractor face potential contempt charges for repeatedly failing to attend city council sessions focused on the prolonged construction of the CCMC. The council had called an executive session on October 29, 2024, to clarify issues and request updates on the hospital’s development, which has been in progress for a decade.
The absence of key DEPW and CCMC representatives frustrated councilors who have sought answers regarding delays and budget concerns. Councilor Nestor Archival Sr. scheduled a follow-up session for November 7, urging DEPW and CCMC officials to appear. He highlighted a recent ordinance signed by Mayor Raymond Garcia, granting the council authority to summon officials under the threat of contempt.
Central to the council’s concerns is a P136 million advance payment issued to M.E. Sicat Construction Inc. for work on the hospital’s upper floors, even though questions remain over whether these funds were properly allocated. Councilor Mary Ann de los Santos speculated that officials may have been directed to avoid the sessions, adding that the absence shows disregard for the council’s inquiries.
Councilor Jocelyn Pesquera suggested escalating the matter by requesting that the mayor initiate contempt proceedings if officials continue to refuse to attend. “Let’s hope that on November 7, all stakeholders are present so we can finally progress on this project,” she said.
Additionally, Councilor Archival revealed concerns over project finances. He noted that over P1 billion had been allocated for Phase 4 without the council’s knowledge, raising questions about transparency in budget approvals. Furthermore, Archival observed discrepancies in the hospital’s bed capacity, with only 150 beds installed, despite a contracted capacity of 500.
The CCMC project has experienced delays since it broke ground in 2014 under then-Mayor Michael Rama, following damage to the original facility in the 2013 earthquake. Since construction began, the city has allocated nearly P2 billion across multiple phases, covering structural, mechanical, electrical, and finishing work. In 2022, the Commission on Audit flagged an over-budget expense of over P62 million for Phase 4 due to calculation errors.
As the council seeks answers, officials have been warned of contempt charges for any continued absences. This latest session reflects the council’s demand for accountability and transparency in completing a long-overdue project meant to serve Cebu City residents.