Senate Resumes Probe into Alleged Flood Control Anomalies
The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee is set to intensify its investigation into alleged irregularities surrounding flood control projects across the Philippines. Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson announced that the panel will summon 19 individuals, including former House Speaker Martin Romualdez and resigned Ako Bicol party-list Representative Zaldy Co.
Key Figures to be Summoned for Investigation
In a statement made on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, Lacson confirmed that invitations would be sent through the formal channels of the House of Representatives leadership. The list of those to be summoned includes 17 other members of the House of Representatives who were identified during previous testimony.
Congressman Eric Yap is among the lawmakers specifically named by the Discaya couple, contractors whose September testimony triggered the expanded investigation. The committee plans to resume its hearings on November 14, following the election of committee chairpersons.
Special Arrangements for Overseas Testimony
Lacson addressed particular attention to the case of former Representative Zaldy Co, indicating that special arrangements would be made for his participation. 'We're extending our invitation to Zaldy Co if he can participate via Zoom,' Lacson stated during an interview.
However, the senator emphasized that proper legal protocols must be followed for testimony given from abroad. 'His testimony will not be valid unless he is inside the premises of a Philippine embassy' in whatever country he may be located, Lacson clarified.
An alternative procedure was also outlined where Co could provide testimony first, then later affirm his statement before a Philippine consul to ensure its legal validity. Lacson confirmed that no direct communication has occurred with Co, and all invitations will follow official channels.
Background and Coordination Efforts
The investigation gained momentum after contractors Cezarah Rowena and Curlee Discaya testified in September, identifying numerous lawmakers, congressional staff, and officials from the Department of Public Works and Highways allegedly involved in the flood control anomalies.
Lacson, who is expected to be reelected as Blue Ribbon Committee chairperson, has coordinated with Senate President Vicente Sotto III to ensure the investigation proceeds without scheduling conflicts. A request has been made to Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, chairperson of the finance committee, to vacate the Friday schedule to accommodate the Blue Ribbon Committee's proceedings.
The upcoming hearings represent a significant escalation in the Senate's examination of public infrastructure projects and their implementation, with potential implications for accountability in government spending.
