Lacson pushes drive to reach ‘logical conclusion’ in flood probe

By Wilnard Bacelonia, Philippine News Agency

Blue Ribbon Committee chairperson Senator Panfilo Lacson (Senate of the Philippines/facebook)

MANILA – Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson on Friday said the Senate is “getting there” in efforts to hold accountable those behind alleged anomalies in flood-control projects, as he vowed full support for ongoing investigations and prosecution efforts.

Lacson issued the statement after the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) formally endorsed to the Office of the Ombudsman the graft, plunder, and bribery complaints against former Speaker Martin Romualdez and resigned Ako Bicol Rep. Elizaldy Co.

“We’re getting there. We are beginning to see the fruits of our collective labor. But make no mistake: the road ahead is long, and we must sustain our efforts until we reach the logical conclusion – the prosecution, conviction, and jailing of those involved,” Lacson said.

Lacson, who chairs the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, said the investigation is anchored on evidence-gathering to uncover corruption behind substandard and so-called ghost flood-control projects.

On Friday, DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon and ICI Commissioner Rogelio Singson submitted several boxes of documents to the Ombudsman, covering more than PHP100 billion worth of contracts involving Co’s firms, Sunwest Inc., and Hi-Tone Construction and Development Corp., from 2016 to 2025.

Singson said additional documents are expected from the Philippine National Police and Armed Forces inspection teams deployed to project sites.

Lacson earlier detailed alleged irregularities in two privilege speeches delivered in August and September, describing what he said was systemic corruption within the DPWH, including instances where public funds were reportedly squandered in casinos.

He said copies of his speeches, along with supporting documents, have been transmitted to both the ICI and the Ombudsman to aid case-building efforts.

Despite recent progress, Lacson noted the scale of the investigation remains extensive.

Singson earlier estimated that at least 15 individuals per ghost project – or about 1,200 people for the initial 80 suspected ghost projects – may face charges.

“I will extend my full support by providing the mandated investigating and prosecution agencies with whatever documents and other evidence we have. We can all help in making those involved answerable,” Lacson said.