Comelec needs P4.7 billion more for new Pasay building

MANILA, Philippines — Citing rising costs, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) said it needs an additional amount of more than P4.7 billion for its new headquarters in Pasay City.

Comelec chairman George Erwin Garcia said the poll body now needs about P13 billion since the initial P8.225 billion will no longer suffice.

READ: Comelec needs P8.2 billion for new building, says Garcia

“The total amount [needed] for the building was computed last 2018. Of course from 2018 to 2025, the cost of equipment will become more expensive,” Garcia said in an interview on the sidelines of his inspection of the construction site.

The three-hectare site will see the emergence of three buildings including warehouses, events venue and even dormitories for its personnel.

Comelec hopes to finish the building three to four years from now.

Garcia noted that once done, the government could save at least P170 million annually.

“So the venues for canvassing and proclamation could be done there instead of renting, which is expensive,” Garcia noted.

At present, the Comelec has offices on the fifth, seventh, and eighth floors of the building, which also house the Intramuros Administration and other agencies.

It also rents a warehouse in Laguna.

“This offers value for money, the Comelec really needs this building,” Garcia.