BAGUIO CITY – Mayor Benjamin Magalong has urged the city council to initiate a third-party investigation on the P110-million Baguio tennis court to clear lingering questions surrounding the project.

Magalong said an impartial review is necessary to shed light on concerns raised particularly on the bidding, implementation, and financial management of the project.

He stressed that involving an independent body would help ensure that the investigation remains objective and credible.

“We owe it to the people of Baguio to make sure that projects funded by taxpayers’ money are above board,” Magalong said. “A third-party investigation will remove doubts and restore confidence in the city’s processes.”

The tennis court at Burnham Park has faced scrutiny in recent days after questions were raised on the selection of Saint Gerrard Construction, a contractor now embroiled in the flood control controversy as well as the project cost, adherence to approved plans and quality of the project.

In an earlier statement, Magalong assured the public that the project awarded to the Discaya-owned Saint Gerrard in 2022 was implemented in compliance with all legal procedures.

Magalong said records would show that Saint Gerrard was “eligible and qualified” to participate in the bidding process and had submitted the most responsive bid. He emphasized that the city’s Bids and Awards Committee and implementing offices carried out their duties in accordance with the law.

On the project’s implementation, he stressed that the contractor remains fully accountable for deficiencies.

He revealed that Saint Gerrard is still addressing punchlisting orders and that the city is closely monitoring the corrections.

“Delays and deficiencies have resulted in liquidated damages amounting to P4,924,154.43, while their receivables from us remain at P26,249,012.35. These figures reflect their accountability, and we will enforce it fully until all obligations are met,” Magalong said.

He dismissed insinuations tied to the company’s controversial name, saying his record as a public servant shows he has always stood firm on principle.

“Whether during the Mamasapano investigations, the Ninja Cops probe, or cases filed against me – I have stood firm, and I will do the same here,” he added.

The mayor said he is supporting the Independent Commission on Infrastructure to distinguish projects meant for public service from those that may be exploited for personal gain.

For transparency, he has directed all departments to make project documents available to the public, with details also posted on the city’s official social media page.

“We will not allow lies to overshadow the truth,” Magalong said. “We stand for accountability and good governance – always.”

The City Council invited Saint Gerard, including the City Buildings and Architecture Office (CBAO), members of the City Bids and Awards Committee, for a due process hearing on Oct. 20, 2025.

Other planned actions of the City Council include the creation of an independent third-party investigation, which will involve a council member, relevant national agencies, and concerned civil society organizations, as recommended by Magalong.

Magalong recently resigned from the ICI to spare the panel of doubts related to his appointment.