Question & AnswerQ&A (Act No. 640)
The main purpose of Act No. 640 is to authorize the appropriation of funds and the improvement of the harbor of Cebu, including dredging, construction of wharves and docks, and land reclamation for public use.
The Act appropriates three hundred and fifty thousand dollars (US currency) for the improvement of the harbor of Cebu.
The Act was enacted by the Philippine Commission under the authority of the United States.
The Act authorizes dredging in the harbor, construction of wharves and docks along the south waterfront of the city of Cebu, and reclaiming lands for public use.
Modifications to the plans can be made and approved by resolution of the Philippine Commission as deemed necessary by the Consulting Engineer to the Commission.
The Consulting Engineer is responsible for preparing plans, specifications, and contracts within sixty days, advertising and contracting work, and may reject bids or directly purchase materials and hire labor with approval from the Secretary of Commerce and Police.
All reclaimed lands, together with adjoining government-owned lands, are reserved for public use and are held subject to laws enacted by the Philippine Commission.
Contracts must be advertised for at least thirty days in two newspapers (one English and one Spanish), and contracts should be let either as a whole or in parts as the Consulting Engineer deems advantageous, subject to the conditions of Act Numbered Twenty-two.
The Consulting Engineer may reject any or all bids or waive defects. If bids are found excessive, he may purchase materials and hire labor directly with the approval of the Secretary of Commerce and Police.
This Act took effect upon its passage on February 16, 1903.