Palace welcomes frigate deal probe; Roque, Go to attend hearing

MANILA -- Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque on Sunday expressed optimism that Special Assistant to the President Christopher “Bong” Go’s participation in the Senate probe on the Philippine Navy’s Frigate Acquisition Project (FAP) will end speculation of the latter’s alleged involvement in the controversial deal.

Together with Go, Roque confirmed his attendance and of Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar, Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II and another Cabinet member.

“Expect Secretary Go to tell all, and as instructed by the President, he would likely demand for an open and transparent Senate inquiry to show that he -- and the administration -- has nothing to hide as he would squarely answer questions, in full view of the public,” the official said in a statement.

Go was accused to have intervened in the FAP contract worth PHP18 billion, including its weapon systems and munitions. He earlier denied the allegation, saying he was unfairly dragged into the mess.

Malacanang and Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana have also cleared Go of the accusations, reiterating that allegations hurled against him are “untrue and unfounded.”

Roque insists that the project was completed during the term of then President Benigno Aquino III and was just signed on October 24, 2016 during the Duterte administration.

“It was the Aquino administration which chose Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) as supplier of the two frigates, including the supply of the boat, the navigation, the communications, and the combat management systems (CMS),” Roque said.

“It was also during the previous administration that Hyundai was declared the responsive bidder and awarded the two frigates, including the CMS,” he added.

In a radio interview, Roque said the administration signed the notice of award pursuant to the Republic Act 9184 or the Government Procurement Reform Act.

When the document arrived at Lorenzana’s office, Roque said the defense chief