Rian Gabriel Fuentes

Senator Alan Cayetano has expressed unfavorability towards the  Department of Public Works and Highways’ (DPWH) proposal for the New Senate Building P33.07B project cost proposal for the New Senate Building on Thursday, October 10. 

Photo Courtesy of Philippine Star/GMA Network.

During a press conference, he said it was unfavorable given the timeline of the building’s construction, citing Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero agrees with him. 

“Hindi acceptable ang timeline na 3-4 years at hindi rin acceptable kay senate president at sa akin yung 31.6B na building cost at 33.07B na project cost,” he said. 

P31.6 billion is the estimated budget for the building alone while the project cost of P33.07 includes the land and furniture. 

However, Cayetano thinks that DPWH gave that timeline to be more conservative, considering the publicity the new senate building garnered. 

“What we’re going to do is… we’re going to put up a new senate coordinating na committee kasi nga masyadong maraming red tape—too many people [and] too many levels,” he said. 

He asked DPWH to mirror their proposed action. 

Cayetano also asserted his commitment to his job is to give a factual report and present to Escudero and all senators a structured plan for the least cost.