Mayor calls on DPWH to secure building permits

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas has urged the Department of Public Works and Highways-Iloilo City District Engineering Office (DPWH-ICDEO) to obtain building permits for their completed and ongoing projects.

“I think just like any other private individuals, ICDEO should also try to comply with the requirements. I think as members of the DPWH family, ICDEO is aware of all the requirements as provided under the law,” he said in a Monday press conference.

The Office of the Building Official (OBO) of Iloilo City recently disclosed that some ICDEO projects have been completed and that other delayed projects lack building permits.

ICDEO initially blamed OBO for the project delays, claiming that construction was halted due to pending building permits from OBO.

OBO responded, explaining that no building permits were issued because either ICDEO “did not apply for issuance at all, or if an application was submitted, the supporting documents attached were either insufficient or non-compliant with legal requirements.”

Treñas believed that the exchanges between the two offices highlighted the need for ICDEO to address its shortcomings.

“With all these things coming out in the open, I think it is better since ICDEO now will have to understand. This is a reminder for them since I am sure that they are fully aware of this,” he explained.

Treñas also mentioned that he will no longer call for a private meeting with DPWH-6 Director Sanny Boy Oropel and ICDEO Head Engr. Roy Pacanan to resolve the issue as the matter is already settled.

The OBO recently explained in a press conference that ICDEO must still secure building permits for their projects to be used for their intended purpose, citing that non-compliant structures will have occupancy issues.

After completing construction, a certificate of occupancy is required to lawfully use the building. This certificate is granted following final inspections that verify the building’s compliance with approved plans and ensure its safety for occupancy.

The certificate of occupancy is also essential for obtaining electricity from utility providers and applying for new water service connections.