Senator Win Gatchalian flags the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) for contracting the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to undertake an infrastructure project that falls outside its core function.

According to the 2024 Commission on Audit (COA) Report, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) contracted the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in 2019 for the construction of the Government Communication Academy in Bukidnon (Phase II) worth ₱45.7 million. COA’s 2020–2023 report listed a similar project with a different amount—₱79 million. The facility has no budget allocation for 2026, as funds have already been allotted for the completion of the remaining 10% of construction.

“Bakit may communications office ang PCO sa Bukidnon?” Gatchalian asked. The PCO explained that the project, initiated under the previous administration, was originally intended as a training center for communication offices under Malacañang and its attached agencies.

“We’ve already spent ₱124 million, and the project is 90% complete. If we don’t finish this, it becomes a white elephant,” said Gatchalian, the Senate Committee on Finance chairperson. The PCO plans to donate the facility to the Northern Bukidnon State College once completed. 

Photo by Mark Cayabyab / OS GATCHALIAN