2019 SEA Games facilities project ‘legal, aboveboard’ –BCDA

After its president and other officials were sued for alleged malversation, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) on Tuesday said that the construction of its P9.5-billion sports facilities used in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games were “completely legal and above board.”

“BCDA stands by its position that the process undertaken for the construction of internationally-certified sports facilities in New Clark City is completely legal and above board, the BCDA said in a statement.

“This is supported by the advice of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), and the favorable opinion issued by the Office of the Government Corporate Counsel (OGCC) as early as October 2018,” it added.

BCDA issued the response after a private citizen sued BCDA President Vivencio "Vince" Dizon and at least three others for alleged malversation of public funds and graft over the sports facilities in New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac which allegedly bypassed public bidding.

Despite the charges, the BDCA expressed confidence “in addressing any and all issues pertaining to the development of the project,” saying that the complex will be the administration's “lasting legacy.”

“The sports facilities were built in record time as part of the National Government Administrative Center Phase 1A development in New Clark City, as necessitated by the Philippines’ hosting of the 2019 SEA Games. Everything was done in a very transparent manner” it said.

“We welcome this opportunity to explain and we are confident to present our side to the Office of the Ombudsman. Rest assured that BCDA will comply with the process in our duty to serve the best interest of the public,” it added. — DVM, GMA News