By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The contractor involved with the construction of the P4 million Negros First Animal Hub at the Panaad Park and Stadium has been suspended by the Provincial Bids and Awards Committee.

Acting Provincial Administrator Lucille Gelvolea said the contractor, Eva Resoor, was suspended from participating in any provincial government projects for six months to one year.

Gelvolea said they are presently seeking advice and opinions from the Commission on Audit-Negros Occidental on how to include the structure, although it is very possible the structure will be taken over as it stands on land owned by the provincial government.

Resoor did not indicate who gave them permission to construct the Animal Hub.

Gelvolea also confirmed Negros Occidental Governor Alfredo Marañon, Jr. issued a memorandum reprimanding Provincial Veterinarian Office head, Dr. Renante Decena, on “command responsibility,” along with two other provincial employees.

Earlier, Marañon said he was unaware of the construction and only learned of the structure during the opening of the Panaad sa Negros Festival back in April.

The issue was brought forward after I Watch Negros Occidental Inc. found the construction project had not gone through a bidding process.

The structure was already between 80 to 90 percent complete when construction was halted due to an investigation.

The facility includes animal pens with rails, a drainage system, auctioneer’s bleachers, and an administration building./DGB, WDJ