Duterte’s aide to face Senate probe on frigate deal

MANILA, Philippines — President Duterte will monitor next week’s Senate hearing on the controversial P15.5-billion frigate deal to be attended by his aide, Christopher “Bong” Go, Malacañang announced yesterday. 

Go was accused of favoring a South Korean firm to be the supplier of the combat management system of the Navy’s frigate program. 

He allegedly sent Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana a letter detailing why the Navy should choose the Naval Shield Integrated Combat Management System of Hanwha Thales over Tacticos CMS of Thales Nederlands Inc.

 Go has denied meddling in the project.  

Asked if Duterte would watch the Senate probe, presidential spokesman Harry Roque said, “I would think so. He would be curious as to what will happen during the hearing. I’m sure it will be televised.”

Roque said he would accompany Go during the inquiry on Feb. 19.

Duterte defended Go on the controversy, saying his aide is a billionaire and does not need to profit from the frigate contract.

The probe was prompted by a resolution filed by opposition Senators Franklin Drilon, Bam Aquino, Francis Pangilinan, Antonio Trillanes, Risa Hontiveros and Leila de Lima.