July 10, 2024 - During the Senate Committee on Accounts hearing held on July 10, 2024, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) confirmed that the total project cost of the New Senate Building (NSB) is now estimated to be between P25 billion and P27 billion. This updated estimate takes into account the impact of inflation on construction prices. When questioned by Chairperson Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, the DPWH disclosed that Phase 3 of the NSB would increase by 20-25 percent if recalculated based on current costs. Senator Cayetano emphasized the importance of having comprehensive information for making informed decisions.
The NSB, situated in Bonifacio Global City, is a significant infrastructure project with a total budget of P23.3 billion, nearly three times the original estimate of P8.9 billion. The building’s design incorporates Filipino cultural symbols and features four office towers representing key democratic values: justice, equality, freedom, and representation. Despite delays and cost adjustments, the NSB aims to provide a permanent home for the Senate, enhancing functionality and accessibility for legislators and the public alike.
The Senate of the Philippines had been renting space spanning six floors at the GSIS Building since 19974. However, it has long been proposed that the Senate relocate to a dedicated building. Former Senate President Aquilino Pimentel Jr. first suggested the move in 2000. One of the reasons for the relocation was the high rental costs the Senate paid to the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) for the use of their building. A previous attempt to construct a Senate building at the Batasan area was discontinued, and the building was repurposed for electoral tribunals.
The groundbreaking ceremony for the New Senate Building took place on March 18, 2019, with the initial completion target set for 2022. However, due to various factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the project timeline shifted. The first phase of construction, costing P8.6 billion, covers glass windows and several elevators. Phase 2, with a budget of P2.375 billion, is currently 18% complete and includes tile installation, ceiling work, elevators, generator sets, fire protection, and escalators. Phase 3, estimated to cost P5.7 billion, will involve lighting installation, partition walls, cooling systems, and restroom fittings.
The new Senate building, known as Bagong Senado, will be ready for occupancy in Bonifacio Global City by January 2025, providing more working space for the Senate and ending their reliance on rented facilities4. The structure stands out with its Filipino-inspired design and four office towers symbolizing democratic values4.