By Gabriel Kim Leal
(July 1, 2024) – Senate Pres. Chiz Escudero on Monday maintained that he never alleged irregularities in the construction of the new multi-billion Senate building in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig.
His remark came after Sen. Migz Zubiri said there are “absolutely no” anomalies regarding the matter and urged Escudero to expedite the impending inquiry, citing the urgent need for the upper chamber to have its new home.
“Nobody alleged irregularity. I’m not alleging any irregularity. I’ve never alleged any irregularity. I don’t know why people are sounding too defensive about this,” said Escudero.
The committee on accounts, now chaired by Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano, will investigate issues surrounding the new Senate building, particularly its increased budget from P8.8 billion in 2019 to allegedly P23.3 billion at present.
“Ang sinabi ko lang, hindi ba masyado mataas at parang masama sa panlasa na ganito kalaki ang halaga na kailangan gagastusin sa isang gusali ng pamahalaan? Wala akong sinabi na anomalya,” said Escudero.
Last month, he ordered the stoppage of the construction, describing the hiked budget as “OA” (overblown). He, however, was slammed by Sen. Nancy Binay, claiming that Escudero relied on fake news instead of talking to them directly.
ALSO READ: Binay on Escudero halting new Senate office: ‘Huwag umasa sa mga Marites’
Escudero said the objective of the inquiry is simply to review the plans and documents related to the construction of the new Senate building.
“Dahil bawat piso ng pamahalaan, ‘di ba ginagastos natin sa tama at maayos at ‘di nilulustay? ‘Yun lamang rason bakit nire-review,” added Escudero.
He also addressed claims that the probe will cause even more delays in the construction.
“Sana inalam din nila na ang Senate building ay delayed na dahil merong slowdown order ang DPWH (Department of Public Works and Highways) bago pa man ako nagbigay ng suspension order,” said Escudero.
(PM)
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