SC acquires P1-B property in Taguig for New SC Complex

The Supreme Court (SC) took a step closer to the construction of the proposed New SC Complex after it signed Tuesday the Deed of Absolute Sale with the Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA) for the purchase of a lot located in Taguig City.

"Today’s signing marks the culmination of the negotiations and signifies the beginning of the new phase of the project that is the construction of the complex," Chief Justice Bersamin said during the ceremony.

"We are a step closer to finally realizing our common dream to have a place we can call our own."

The Supreme Court building on Padre Faura, Manila, where the SC employees currently take office is owned by the University of the Philippines.

Meanwhile, the 21,463 sq.m. property bought by the SC was located at the former Philippine Army Security Escort Group Area in Fort Bonifacio.

A full payment of P1,044,021,642.86 has been handed over by Bersamin to BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Vivencio B. Dizon for the property.

The SC and BCDA have also signed memorandum of agreements with Public Works Secretary Mark Villar and Megaworld Senior Vice President Kevin Andrew L. Tan for the construction of access roads to the new SC property.

Bersamin said he is hoping the efforts of court officials will one day come to fruition when the New SC Complex finally rises.

“I am certain that I will no longer be the Chief Justice when this day finally arrives. But I assure you that I will be among the first to feel the most proud and excited to have our beloved Supreme Court finally have a home,” he said. —Dona Magsino/KBK, GMA News