Magalong seeks probe Into Baguio Tennis Court project

BAGUIO CITY — Mayor Benjamin Magalong has urged the city council to authorize a third-party investigation into the Burnham Park Tennis Court project to address lingering concerns on its bidding, implementation and financial management.

Magalong said an impartial review would help ensure objectivity and restore public confidence.

“We owe it to the people of Baguio to make sure that projects funded by taxpayers’ money are above board,” he said. “A third-party investigation will remove doubts and restore confidence in the city’s processes.”

The project came under scrutiny after questions were raised about the selection of St. Gerrard Construction — a contractor currently linked to a separate flood control controversy — as well as the project cost, adherence to approved plans and quality of work.

The mayor reiterated that the contract, awarded in 2022, underwent proper bidding and procurement procedures.

He said documents showed that St. Gerrard was “eligible and qualified” to participate in the bidding and submitted the most responsive offer.

He added that the city’s Bids and Awards Committee and implementing offices followed all legal procedures.

However, Magalong maintained that the contractor remains fully liable for deficiencies.

He reported that St. Gerrard is still addressing punchlisting orders and that the city is monitoring compliance, noting that delays and lapses have led to liquidated damages of ₱4,924,154.43.

Meanwhile, the contractor has ₱26,249,012.35 in unpaid receivables from the city.

“These figures reflect their accountability, and we will enforce it fully until all obligations are met,” he said.

Magalong also brushed aside insinuations linking him to the controversial contractor.

“Whether during the Mamasapano investigations, the Ninja Cops probe or cases filed against me — I have stood firm, and I will do the same here,” he said.

He expressed support for the creation of an Independent Commission on Infrastructure to distinguish legitimate public projects from those used for personal gain.

For transparency, he ordered all departments to make project documents accessible to the public and post details on the city’s official Facebook page.

“We will not allow lies to overshadow the truth. We stand for accountability and good governance — always,” Magalong said.