Analysis of Construction Delays in Public Sector Projects at Apayao State College in the Philippines

Abstract

Public sector construction projects, funded by the government, are crucial for driving economic growth and progress, particularly in the rural areas of the Philippines. These projects are essential for improving the quality of life by providing vital infrastructure to the people. However, various factors have led to significant delays in these projects, consequently postponing the delivery of services to constituents. This study investigates the major causes of delays in public sector construction projects, with a focus on Apayao State College, and their effects on project success. A systematic approach was employed, highlighting the demographic characteristics of respondents to provide context and understanding of different perceptions regarding construction delays. The study adopted a descriptive correlational design. The key findings revealed that the top causes of delays include: delays in the delivery of materials (RII=0.870); force majeure events such as natural disasters and pandemics (RII=0.850); shortage of materials (RII=0.830); shortage of equipment (RII=0.805); decision-making delays from the agency (RII=0.795); improper technical studies of the project, inaccurate bid proposals during the bidding period, and problems with subcontractors due to their lack of capacity to execute the project (RII=0.775); financial difficulties faced by the contractor (RII=0.770); equipment failures, long delays in progress payments by the agency, and ambiguities and mistakes in specifications and drawings (RII=0.755); work suspensions by the agency, insufficient coordination among the parties, and difficulties in obtaining government permits and certifications (RII=0.750); and delays in project mobilization/start (RII=0.745). The six highlighted effects of these delays include: time overruns (RII=0.845); cost overruns (RII=0.785); disputes (RII=0.715); arbitration and abandonment (RII=0.705); and litigation (RII=0.630). It was further analyzed that both the agency and contractors shared similar views on the causes and effects of delays on project success.