The House of Representatives is expected to begin an investigation in November into the controversial Dolomite Beach project in Manila Bay, according to House committee on public accounts chairperson and Bicol Saro party-list Rep. Terry Ridon.
Ridon said the committee will issue invitations once sessions resume to start the hearings on the P389-million project, which was implemented in 2020 under the Duterte administration.
The Department of Public Works and Highways carried out the project, while the Department of Environment and Natural Resources initiated it.
‘‘This dolomite project hearing is very important because it raises questions about overpricing and corruption in infrastructure projects,’’ Ridon said.
He also questioned whether such projects were necessary, noting the dolomite beach was ‘‘never part of the NEDA Masterplan for Manila Bay rehabilitation.’’
He clarified that the investigation was not politically motivated, noting it falls under the 10-year scope of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI).
Environmental groups had long criticized the project for being wasteful and environmentally unsound, saying it failed to address Manila Bay’ water pollution problems despite its high cost.
