Senate Panel Weighs Hearing on Former DPWH Chief Over Flood Control Data Concerns
Senate President Pro Tempore and Blue Ribbon Committee chair Panfilo Lacson announced on Thursday that the investigative panel is contemplating directing its upcoming hearing toward unresolved matters involving former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manuel Bonoan. The consideration comes amid ongoing scrutiny of flood control project data discrepancies that have raised significant questions.
Focus on Bonoan's Explanation of Project Data Patterns
In radio interviews, Lacson emphasized that Bonoan still has several issues to clarify, particularly highlighting what he described as a concerning "pattern" of incorrect grid coordinates in flood control projects. This pattern was documented in a report previously submitted to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., sparking further investigation into the accuracy and integrity of the data provided by the DPWH.
Lacson stated, "We can focus the next hearing on Bonoan to tackle other issues he can clarify. He is in the country so he can address the issues involving him." This move underscores the committee's commitment to ensuring accountability and transparency in government projects, especially those critical to public infrastructure and safety.
Evidence of Widespread Data Errors Points to Deliberate Action
During the committee's most recent hearing, DPWH Undersecretaries Arthur Bisnar and Ricardo Bernabe III presented alarming data indicating that more than 86 percent of flood control projects contained incorrect grid coordinates. Lacson noted that if only a small fraction of projects were affected, such errors might be attributed to mere negligence or oversight. However, the sheer scale of the inaccuracies suggests a more systematic issue.
"With over 86 percent bearing wrong grid coordinates, we can say this is deliberate," Lacson asserted. This conclusion raises serious concerns about potential intentional misreporting, which could undermine the effectiveness and oversight of flood control initiatives across the country.
Long-Term Implications for Legal Cases and Project Integrity
The submission of incorrect data carries significant long-term consequences, as highlighted by Lacson. One major implication is the potential weakening of legal cases involving alleged ghost flood control projects. For instance, if evidence from the 'Sumbong sa Pangulo' website is used in court, defense attorneys could challenge the credibility of the data due to these documented errors.
Lacson explained, "For example, if a case is filed using data from the 'Sumbong sa Pangulo' website as evidence, the defense can question the website's credibility. That is one possible long-term motive for submitting wrong data." This scenario underscores how data integrity is crucial not only for project management but also for judicial processes and public trust.
Potential Consequences for Bonoan in Senate Inquiry
Lacson also warned that Bonoan could face serious repercussions if he fails to cooperate fully during the Senate inquiry. Specifically, he could be cited in contempt and detained by the Senate if he becomes evasive in answering questions. "He could be detained, not just issued an arrest warrant," Lacson emphasized, highlighting the gravity of the situation and the committee's authority to enforce compliance.
This development marks a critical juncture in the Senate's ongoing efforts to investigate and address irregularities in public works projects, with a particular focus on ensuring that officials are held accountable for their actions and the data they provide.
