One example, with bidding set to open tomorrow, is a key section of the nearly $3-billion Bataan–Cavite Interlink Bridge, one of the largest infrastructure projects under President Marcos’ Build Better More program.
A notable development is the strong presence of Chinese bidders in the 32-kilometer project funded by the Asian Development Bank.
China Wu Yi Co. Ltd.–Fujian Road & Bridge Construction Corp. Co. Ltd., a first-time bidder in the Philippines, is making an aggressive play for the Bataan land approach segment of the bridge.
They are up against established local consortiums such as the Linao family-backed Sta. Clara International Corp. with South Korean industrial giant Posco as well as he EEI Corp. consortium.
Nothing is inherently wrong with foreign participation.
But in this case, Filipino engineers risk being sidelined as Chinese state firms dominate projects. This also goes hand in hand with doubts over accountability and national security amid Beijing’s moves in the West Philippine Sea.
A similar trend can be observed in the Cavite landing of the bridge, where the Consunji family’s DMCI is the sole Filipino bidder competing against four Chinese firms.
The Bataan landing package bids open Tuesday, Sept. 30, and it won’t just be the bidders watching. Business and national security leaders will be monitoring developments closely.
Miguel R. Camus has been a reporter covering various domestic business topics since 2009.
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