The Senate of the Philippines is set to spend over P700,000 to renovate the new office of Senate President Pro Tempore Vicente 'Tito' Sotto III. This decision follows the departure of the previous occupant, Senator Jinggoy Estrada, who reportedly left the office nearly empty.
Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian confirmed that a budget of up to P700,000 is allocated for the renovation of senators' offices. He noted that it is not customary for outgoing senators to remove nearly all furniture and equipment from their offices upon leaving.
Gatchalian highlighted examples of former senators, such as Aquilino 'Koko' Pimentel III and Panfilo Lacson, who left their offices in good condition, requiring minimal changes for their successors. He emphasized that it would be more economical for the Senate to have the next official use the office without extensive renovations.
Despite the circumstances, Gatchalian respected Estrada's decision, stating that it was recorded that Estrada used his personal funds for the modifications in his office, rather than government money.