UNFINISHED HEALTH FACILITIES RAISE CONCERNS DESPITE CONTRACTORS BEING FULLY PAID, SAYS DOH

Department of Health Secretary Ted Herbosa revealed that several health facilities in the Philippines remain unfinished despite full payment to contractors.

Of the 600 health centers funded under the Health Facilities Enhancement Program (HFEP), only 200 are operational, with some projects abandoned by contractors.

Herbosa confirmed that some contractors were paid in full even though their work was incomplete, prompting investigations into possible collusion with inspecting engineers.

Lawmakers raised concerns about accountability and legal action against contractors who failed to finish projects, citing examples like a hospital project stalled at 15% completion since 2021.

A 2024 Commission on Audit report noted 123 unfinished contracts worth P11 billion, with delays affecting value for money despite ongoing negotiations to resolve the issues.

Source: PhilNews24 | October 2, 2025