De Lima wants Senate probe of SEAG snafus

MANILA, Philippines — The successful campaign of Filipino athletes should not be an excuse to cancel the investigation into irregularities that attended the 30th Southeast Asian Games (SEAG), Sen. Leila de Lima said.

‍‍‍‍The detained senator wants an official probe into the transfer of government funds to a private foundation, the P55 million spent for the cauldron used for the flame, as well as the financing of the New Clark City and its athletic facilities. ‍‍‍‍‍‍

‍‍“As we celebrate our athletes’ most successful campaign in recent memory, it is likewise important for our government to scrutinize our performance both as a host country and as a patron to our athletes,” De Lima said in her resolution filed on Dec. 16.

She was concerned that the event might have been used by some officials “to enrich themselves.” ‍‍‍‍‍‍

‍Even President Rodrigo Duterte wants an investigation, De Lima said.