Lawmaker seeks probe of sale of QI

MANILA, Philippines - Eastern Samar Rep. Ben Evardone has called for a congressional inquiry into the “anomalous and illegal” sale of the 6.5-hectare Quezon Institute (QI) property, which used to be the main office of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) in Quezon City.

“If such (sale) were true, the transfer was illegal since it required the approval of the President, and such requirement is wanting,” according to Evardone, author of House Resolution 1358 that called for the probe.

QI is a hospital that specializes in the care and treatment of patients with tuberculosis, with its main building located along E. Rodriguez Avenue and where the PCSO has long been headquartered.

Evardone urged the House committee on good government to investigate the alleged illegal sale of the 6.5-hectare property saying it did not pass through the bidding process, thus creating doubts on the legality of the transactions.

The zonal value of the property would reach P5 billion, based on the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and the valuation and appraisal by independent brokers, said Evardone.

He said the 6.5-hectare QI property could be sold only if the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) would allow it.

He said under the new Heritage Law, or Republic Act 10066, the property is automatically protected, more so that architect and National Artist Juan Nakpil designed the building.

“It is considered a national treasure and any sale or improvements must pass through NHCP whether the property is publicly or privately owned,” Evardone said.

He warned the people who facilitated the sale of the property are facing a jail term of not less than 10 years and a fine of not less than P200,000 under Republic Act 10066.