Senate body green lights probe on Drilon-linked Iloilo Convention Center

ARTIST’S rendering of the Iloilo Convention Center. Inset Senate President Franklin Drilon. PHOTO FROM ILOILO BUSINESS PARK and INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines – The Senate announced on Monday that it will investigate the claim that the Iloilo Convention Center was grossly overpriced.

“The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee will formally investigate the alleged overpricing in the construction of the Iloilo Convention Center (ICC) and other issues related to it,” Senator Teofisto Guingona III said in a statement.

He said the hearing will be initiated based on controversies “partly covered” by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago’s Senate Resolution no. 906.

“The Blue Ribbon Committee shall commence the investigation as soon as initial preparations have been completed,” Guingona said.

Last week, graft and plunder charges were filed against Senate President Franklin Drilon, Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez, Public Works Secretary Rogelio Singson and other officials for their alleged involvement in the supposed overpricing of the P700-million building.

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