A procurement protest filed by General Pacific Services has triggered a mandatory delay in the long-awaited Simon Sanchez High School Replacement Project, the Department of Public Works confirmed Wednesday. Under Guam law, the filing imposes an automatic stay, halting progress while the concerns are formally reviewed.
The dispute involves questions about the timeliness or completeness of the procurement record, though DPW said it coordinated throughout the process with the Office of the Attorney General to ensure strict compliance and transparency. Officials stated they are confident in the record and intend to address all issues raised during the review.
The delay forces the postponement of Monday’s planned groundbreaking, a setback that adds to more than a decade of stalled efforts. Thousands of students have dealt with double sessions, overcrowding and deteriorating facilities while awaiting a new campus. DPW acknowledged the community’s frustration and said it shares the disappointment felt by students, families, faculty and alumni.
Despite the latest obstacle, DPW said it remains committed to delivering a safe and modern school for Simon Sanchez students and pledged to move forward as quickly as the law allows. The agency urged the community to remain patient as the protest process runs its course.