Question & AnswerQ&A (LETTER OF INSTRUCTIONS NO. 959)
The main objective is to facilitate the early issuance of clearances for the imported components of the Manila Water Supply Project II to sustain adequate water supply in Metropolitan Manila.
The Bureau of Customs, the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System, and the Ministry of Public Works.
The Bureau of Customs is tasked to issue guidelines and procedures for contractors to fulfill documentation for importation, and assign specific Customs personnel to process import documents to ensure smooth flow of operations.
MWSS shall monitor and coordinate contractor activities in the use of imported materials, verify end-use certification of equipment to Customs, and coordinate with the Ministry of Public Works to shorten bid evaluation procedures.
Coordination is emphasized to address delays, documentation, and communication problems, thereby facilitating smooth processing and release of imported components necessary for the project.
The Bureau must assign specific personnel to handle import documents related to the project and issue guidelines to contractors for fulfilling documentation requirements.
By instructing MWSS to coordinate with the Ministry of Public Works to establish and implement procedures that shorten the screening, review, and evaluation time lags in contract bids.
The letter does not specifically mention penalties, but it mandates coordination and procedural improvements to avoid delays and inefficiencies in project implementation.