Sotto backs probe into two Build, Build, Build projects

Senate President Vicente Sotto III expressed support Wednesday for the proposal of detained Senator Leila de Lima to conduct an investigation into two multi-billion projects under the government's "Build, Build, Build" program.

“Yes. Why not?” Sotto said when asked to comment on Senate Resolution No. 927 filed by De Lima seeking a probe into the construction of the P23-billion North Luzon Expressway—South Luzon Expressway Connector Road Project and the P171-billion North-South Commuter Railway Project.

“If the executive department has nothing to hide, there is nothing to worry,” he added.

Asked when the probe would commence, Sotto said it would depend on Senate Committee on Public Works chairman Senator Manny Pacquiao.

Presidential Spokesperson and Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo earlier expressed hope the investigation was truly "in aid of legislation and not for political grandstanding purposes.” 

He added that the impact on the economy and the living conditions of affected residents were part of the feasibility studies for these projects.

De Lima said the construction projects, which are expected to roll out this year, may cause the demolition of the houses of residents in 38 communities in Metro Manila.

“Mega-infrastructure projects such as these rarely, if at all, mention the social costs of these endeavors, particularly the physical and economic displacement of thousands of people just to give way for their construction in Metro Manila’s densely populated areas,” she said.

“Some residents of Sampaloc, Manila have long been apprehensive of their forcible eviction and relocation to give way for the construction of these projects.  They have repeatedly stressed that the concerned agencies have failed to adequately consult with them concerning the right-of-way negotiations,” she added. —KG, GMA News