PRESS RELEASE

June 13, 2024

Young Guns Condemn Wasteful Spending on New Senate Building

Members of the "Young Guns" in the House of Representatives have expressed their strong criticism of the escalating costs and potential waste of public funds associated with the new Senate building in Taguig City, saying they support the suspension of the project pending a comprehensive review.

The new Senate building project, initially budgeted at P8.9 billion, has seen costs balloon to a staggering P23.3 billion. This dramatic increase has raised serious concerns about the responsible use of taxpayer money.

1-Rider Party-list Rep. Rodge Gutierrez emphasized the importance of accountability in government spending, stating, “It is only prudent to scrutinize projects involving public funds. We owe it to our constituents to ensure that every peso is spent wisely and effectively.”

“This project is a prime example of why stringent checks and balances are essential. The significant cost overrun calls for a reassessment to protect our nation’s fiscal health,” Gutierrez added.

House Assistant Majority Leader and Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Jil Bongalon stressed the need for transparency, saying, “It is crucial that we uphold public trust in all our infrastructure projects. Every centavo must be accounted for to prevent misuse of funds.”

Amid concerns about the project's costs, Assistant Majority Leader and Zambales 1st District Rep. Jay Khonghun highlighted the necessity of a thorough evaluation. 

“Delaying the project for a comprehensive review is a responsible decision. We must address any concerns and ensure the project aligns with the best interests of the Filipino people,” Khonghun said.

“Public infrastructure projects should reflect prudent financial management. We must halt this project until a clear and transparent review can guarantee that the funds are used appropriately and for the benefit of all Filipinos,” he added.

Assistant Majority Leader and La Union 1st District Rep. Paolo Ortega echoed these sentiments, stating, “Suspending the release of funds is a necessary step to prevent potential issues and ensure the new Senate building project meets the highest standards of efficiency and accountability.”

“When public funds are misallocated, it undermines trust in our institutions and hampers our ability to address other critical needs. This situation demands immediate attention and corrective action,” he added.

MULA SA KAMARA DE REPRESENTANTES, TERENCE MORDENO GRANA, NAG-UULAT PARA SA ARMED FORCE RADIO, BOSES NG KAWAK PILIPINO This is Terence Mordeno Grana, reporting for AFP Community News, One AFP for Stronger Philippines.