The Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) has referred to the Department of Justice (DOJ) its initial findings on alleged bid-rigging in flood control projects in Bulacan, following a motu proprio inquiry into possible collusion among contractors and public officials.
According to PCC’s Competition Enforcement Office (CEO), evidence points to violations of Section 14(a)(2) of the Philippine Competition Act involving certain flood control contracts under the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) 1st District Engineering Office in Bulacan. Investigators found indications that contractors coordinated pre-determined winning and losing bids, while several DPWH personnel allegedly facilitated the arrangement.
PCC formally transmitted the case to DOJ on November 14, in line with DOJ Department Circular No. 015 (2024) and DC No. 20 (2023). The DOJ will determine whether further case build-up is necessary or if the matter will proceed directly to preliminary investigation.
Bid-rigging is a prohibited practice that inflates project costs, undermines competition, and wastes taxpayer resources. PCC affirmed its continued support for the DOJ process as part of its mandate to protect competitive markets and safeguard public interest.