Mayor Cayetano backs proposal to transfer House to BGC

Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano expressed support Thursday for the proposal to transfer the House of Representatives to Bonifacio Global City (BGC), noting that this is a testament to Taguig's development.

Cayetano said Taguig City is ready should this proposal push through as it "stands as an optimal and strategic choice" that attracts businesses, tourists, educational institutions, international organizations, and various government offices.

The mayor also noted that the new Senate building is set to partially open in BGC by next year.

Further, she emphasized the significance of this initiative for constituents, visitors, House employees, and the general public. In affirming the city's dedication, Cayetano also vowed to play a proactive role in ensuring a smooth and efficient relocation process should it proceed.

Filed by Representatives Luis Raymund "LRay" Villafuerte Jr. (Camarines Sur, 2nd dist.), Aurelio Gonzales Jr. (Pampanga, 3rd dist.), and David Suarez (Quezon City, 2nd dist.), House Resolution 1390 created an ad hoc committee that will study the establishment of a new building for the House of Representatives.

The congressmen asserted that with the Senate set to transfer to BGC by July 2024, the House of Representatives should also consider moving to the same area for better communication and coordination of legislative work.

The House of Representatives is currently located at the Batasang Pambansa complex in Quezon City. The Senate, meanwhile, is situated at the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) complex in Pasay City.

The Supreme Court has affirmed with finality a December 2021 decision which ruled that the disputed Bonifacio Global City belongs to Taguig City.

Last June, the Supreme Court rejected the Makati City government's motion asking the high court to allow it to file a second motion for reconsideration over its territorial dispute with Taguig City.

This is in connection with a 2021 Supreme Court decision declaring that the Fort Bonifacio Military Reservation, consisting of parcels 3 and 4, psu-2031, and the 10 barangays, are part of the territory of Taguig City. — VDV, GMA Integrated News