DND seeking P188-M for deferred Marawi City military camp project

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of National Defense (DND) is seeking P188 million for the construction of a strategically placed military camp in war-torn Marawi City.

During the DND budget hearing in the Senate on Friday, Philippine Army Commanding General Andres Centino said P188.16 million was allocated in 2019 to fund the establishment of a camp in Marawi City.

“This is to support the construction of facilities for the infantry brigade there,” he told senators.

But the project was deferred in compliance with a Department of Budget and Management resolution, which Centino did not elaborate on.

The camp was intended to be put up on a 10.2-hectare land on a hilltop overlooking the city, according to the Army chief.

“It is on a hilltop, it stands about 788 meters above sea level elevation and offers a view of the entire city and the entire lake which is ideal for a military camp,” Centino added.

Senator Francis Tolentino, who first inquired about the establishment of a military camp in Marawi City, asked  Centino to resubmit the details of the P188-million budgetary request so that the chamber can review it.

Centino said they will comply with the requested submission.

The DND is proposing a total budget of P297.1-billion for 2022.

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