Friday, July 25, 2008 Nograles: P200M for Sona, House renovation
THE House of Representatives is spending P200 million in preparation for the State of the Nation Address (Sona) of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on July 28 at the Batasang Pambansa.
But House Speaker Prospero Nograles clarified that the money was spent not solely for the Sona but also for the much needed restoration and repair at the Batasan complex.
"We are doing restoration and repairs now because of the long recess. We can't do repairs in session. We are spending about P85 million to fix the House which has not been repaired since 1977," Nograles said.
The complex was constructed 31 years ago.
The remaining P115 million is allotted on other purchases like security equipments, said Nograles.
Nograles made the clarification after a local television news program criticized the huge amount spent by the Congres for Sona.
The TV host commented that it would be best for the money spent on alleviating the food and fuel crisis rather than spent it for just a single event.
"Local TV does not appreciate my position. They not only fail to support, they nitpick. Maybe they should read national papers to get our side of the story," Nograles said.
He said all he wanted is to "restore the House institutional dignity by initiating long needed rehabilitation repair of leaking roofs, dilapidated comfort rooms, broken down tiles and market-like corridors." (BOT)
