CAGAYAN de Oro City — Contractors waiting to be paid by the Misamis Oriental provincial government may have to wait longer as officials review whether the projects they completed actually meet government standards. 

Gov. Juliette Uy said her administration is working to settle the province’s unpaid obligations but will release public funds only after verifying that the projects were properly completed. 

During her State of the Province Address (SOPA) last week, Uy said she created a task force of department heads to review unfinished projects and unpaid claims inherited by her administration. 

For contractors, the review could determine whether they finally get paid — or are required to fix defective work first. 

“Para sa mga nautangan nato, rest assured we will pay all of you,” Uy said.

Uy said some projects inspected by the provincial government were found to have deficiencies. She cited classroom buildings in the First District that allegedly failed to meet required standards. 

She specifically mentioned a two-story school building in areas including Medina and Magsaysay, where she said inspectors found problems with the flooring and stairs. 

“If there is approval from the DILG, the projects will be paid,” Uy said, adding that contractors whose work fails to meet specifications would not be paid until the deficiencies are addressed.

The provincial government is now conducting inspections to determine which projects qualify for payment and which need corrective work. 

Uy said the province has already paid about 20% to 30% of its outstanding obligations to contractors.

She also acknowledged the financial strain caused by delayed payments, saying some contractors had borrowed money to finance government projects and are now struggling to recover their capital. 

“I know some of you borrowed money to finance the projects. Many contractors come to me crying,” Uy said. 

The governor said the province intends to clear its remaining obligations while ensuring that government money goes only to projects that comply with approved plans, specifications and other requirements. 

For contractors still waiting for payment, the message is clear: legitimate claims will be settled, but only after the projects pass the province’s verification process.