On Nov 17, the Senate’s inquiry will start on the allegedly overpriced PHP700-million Iloilo Convention Center (ICC).
“Senate President Franklin Drilon said he would inhibit himself from the inquiry but expressed readiness to answer the questions his colleagues would ask regarding allegations of corruption,” reports Amita O. Legaspi on GMA News Online.
Drilon explained, “When I inhibit, it means that I will not ask any question from the resource persons. But will answer any and all questions not only in the Blue Ribbon Committee hearing, but in any forum. I welcome the investigation, and I support the investigation.”
The report noted: “Drilon and some government officials are facing plunder charges before the Ombudsman in connection with the alleged padded construction costs of the Iloilo venue, one of those that will be used to host the Asia-Pacific Economic Conference or APEC Summit in 2015.”
Drilon has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing in connection with the project, which was partially funded by his pork barrel allocations. The senator also said that he “expects the committee chairman, Sen. TG Guingona, to be fair in conducting the hearing.”
Photo: UNTV screengrab
