The Commission on Audit (COA) has granted partially the P50.6 million money claim of Commander Security Services, Inc. (CSSI) against the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) for the services of security screening machine operators rendered from August 2022 to January 2023.

CSSI, represented by Carmelo T. Ayson, said that PPA and CCSI entered into a Contract Agreement for the Provision of Baggage Security Screening Machine Operators for PPA Head Office, Port Management Offices (PMO), and Terminal Management Offices/Ports. The contract ran for one year from July 14, 2021 to July 13, 2022.

Then, they entered into a Supplemental Agreement which later extended the contract from July 13, 2022 to Aug. 31, 2022.

After the expiration of the term of the contract on Aug. 31, 2022, CSSI still continued rendering services to the PPA. Since there was no formal contract for it, CSSI told its screener machine operators assigned at the PPA that it will disengage services effective Jan. 31, 2023.

CSSI said that it remained unpaid for the extended services it has provided. It filed a petition for money claim on Nov. 28, 2023.

"This Commission rules in the affirmative but partially grants the amount to be paid to CSSI," the decision stated.

The commission pointed out: "Although the services provided beyond Aug. 31, 2022 were not covered by a signed extension or signed contract, this Commission finds that CSSI should be compensated for the services subject of this petition based on the principle of ‘quantum meruit’ (as much as deserved).”

However, the COA denied CSSI's claim for legal interest, attorney's fees and cost of suit for lack of jurisdiction.

The 10-page decision was signed by Chairperson Gamaliel A. Cordoba and Commissioner Douglas M.N. Mallillin.