First, the choice of location. Bonifacio Global Center is for the rich, no doubt about that. The access of the masses to their senators will be hampered by lack of public transportation such as jeepneys.
First, the choice of location. Bonifacio Global Center is for the rich, no doubt about that. The access of the masses to their senators will be hampered by lack of public transportation such as jeepneys.
Second, the huge architectural design of the edifice. Considering that only 24 lucky and honorable people are to use it, the building is indeed massive.
Third is the cost of construction. The new building of the Senate of the Philippines was initially given a budget estimate of P8.9 billion. This has now ballooned to P13 billion with an additional P10 billion required for its completion, bringing the total to P23.3 billion.
There are many more indelicacies in the Senate building project that many back the decision of newly elected Senate President Francis "Chiz" Escudero to stop its construction and revisit the architectural plans, budget and other details. Opinyon Media Advocacies and this newspaper, Opinyon Metro, are among the ardent supporters of Escudero's move. So, too, are thousands of netizens who pointed out correctly that the country which has yet to solve its poverty problem does not need to show off half of its legislature by constructing an ostentatious building.
It was columnist Rigoberto "Bobi" Tiglao who first pointed out as insensitive the senators' decision to construct their own building for several billions of pesos, while at the same time allocating only P500 million for the defense of the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
The Senate building is such an abhorrent a project that even the Young Guns in the House of Representatives are calling out the senators for their out and out ostentation.
Rep. Raul Bongalon of Ako Bicol party-list said that a dramatic increase in public spending is a potential waste of public funds that necessitates a comprehensive review.
Zambales 1st district Rep. Jefferson 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."
While Khonghun is correct, we cannot wrap our mind to how the Filipinos people would benefit from the expenses already incurred in the construction of the Senate building.
By all indications, this glitzy building will ultimately be completed at great expense to the Filipino people, to be enjoyed like an 8-star hotel by 24 senators and their staff.
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