DESPITE opposition from election watchdogs, the Commission on Elections finally signed its over P535-million contract for the transportation of election paraphernalia during the 2022 polls with F2 Logistics, a company linked to Davao businessman Dennis Uy.
The copy of the contract was posted on Comelec’s website after it was signed last Friday.
In the agreement, F2 Logistics will be responsible for the delivery of all Automated Election System (AES) related equipment, peripherals, forms and supplies for the roadshow, field tests, mock elections, training, Final Testing and Sealing (FTS) and Election Day of Comelec.
“Provider shall exercise extraordinary diligence in the handling and delivery of all Comelec Cargoes. Any loss or damage to Comelec shipments is subject to the pertinent provisions of this Contract,” Comelec said in its 32-page contract.
F2 Logistics was made to sign the contract and it was able to meet the Performance Security in the form of Bank Guarantee last Sept. 21.
To recall, Comelec drew criticism after it awarded the contract to F2 Logistics, which was linked to Davao businessman Dennis Uy, a known ally of President Duterte.
F2 Logistics won the contract, which has an approved budget of P1.61 billion, with a bid of P535,999,998.
Poll officials said the contract was awarded to F2 logistics despite its supposed affiliation with Uy, since the firm was able to comply with all of the requirements for the contract.
They stressed the identity of the owner of a company does not affect its qualification, when it participates in Comelec’s biddings.