MANILA, Philippines — Members of the Senate minority bloc have filed a resolution calling for an investigation into the controversial multibillion-peso frigate acquisition program of the Philippine Navy.
The resolution, which was filed Tuesday, directs the Committee on National Defense and Security and the Congressional Oversight Committee on the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Act to conduct the probe into the procurement of two Navy frigates.
The resolution seeks to “determine whether or not such acquisition promotes the goals of the modernization program and complies with pertinent laws.”
Sens. Francis Pangilinan, Franklin Drilon, Antonio Trillanes IV, Bam Aquino, Risa Hontiveros and Leila de Lima signed the document.
Earlier this week, it was reported that Special Assistant to the President Christopher “Bong” Go intervened in the procurement deal. President Rodrigo Duterte and Go both denied the participation of Malacañang.
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercado, relieved as Navy flag officer in command over the frigate deal, also denied that Go meddled with the frigate acquisition project.
The deal was initiated during President Benigno Aquino III's administration but the contract was signed during the Duterte administration, the minority bloc said.
Hyundai Heavy Industries won the bid to deliver the Navy’s two frigates.
READ: Alejano: Duterte should probe Bong Go over Navy frigate issue