Based on data presented by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the Senate building construction had P8.9 billion for the core and shell which covered civil works worth P3.090 billion, plumbing and fire protection worth P2.095 billion, and variations worth P833 million.

The initial cost of P8.9 billion covered only the “core and shell” or the core structural elements and the exterior shell of the building, such as the foundation and structural skeleton. The public’s perception was the amount of P8.9 billion was the total cost of the building.

The DPWH data showed that for the fit-out, the construction would cost P2.5 billion covering architectural work worth P1.452 billion; electrical and lighting at P466.4 million, and mechanical, plumbing and fire protection at P267.936 million, with variations at P124.745 million.

While it has not been approved, the DPWH said the government is poised to shell out P10.33 billion to finish the building, which would cover a design fee of P383.7 million; architectural works of P3.1 billion; electrical and lighting for P881 million, and mechanical, plumbing and fire protection for P716.2 million.

Fit-out works in construction refer to the process of completing the interior of a building to make it ready for occupancy. This includes installing all the necessary elements for functionality and usability, such as walls, floors, ceilings, lighting, electrical wiring, plumbing, heating, ventilation and air-conditioning.

Senate President Francis Escudero said that if he could have his way, he would like the Senate to move to its new building in Taguig City by 2028.

Escudero said that judging by the progress of the construction work, the building may be completed in late 2026 or 2027.

The building will have four towers of 11 floors each, along with tri-level basements for 1,200 parking slots.

Escudero said the transfer to the new Senate building could be done by 2028 so the arrangement of offices should be for the incoming senators and not for those whose terms will be ending.

“Maybe 2028 is a good time to start fresh,” Escudero said.

Last year, when Escudero assumed the Senate presidency, he suspended the construction of the building due to its aggregated cost of P23 billion which he considered “shocking and in bad taste.” He said he would look into how the cost could be reduced.

Initially budgeted at P8.9 billion, Escudero found the building cost had ballooned to P13 billion, plus an additional P10 billion for completion, bringing the total to P23 billion.

“For me, it was really surprising and a bit hard to swallow,” he said.

In his recent statements on the completion of the building, Escudero clarified the suspension of the construction last year covered only phase three or the P10-billion additional cost.

He noted that although the P27-billion total cost of the project was likely calculated based on the current price of materials, he would seek measures to possibly lower the amount.