Top Flood Control Contractor Leaves Philippines
One of the top 15 contractors linked to allegedly anomalous flood control projects in the Philippines has reportedly left the country, officials reported. This development comes amid ongoing investigations into corruption allegations surrounding these flood control projects.
Sen. Rodante Marcoleta, who leads the Senate blue ribbon committee probing alleged irregularities, shared this information during an ambush interview. He clarified that it remains uncertain if the contractor departed due to the investigation or for other reasons.
Clarifying the Contractor’s Status
“I did not say that this individual left the country because of this. Someone is already out of the country; it may be because they went home. I did not say that they were hiding or that they fled. Because there is information that someone is looking for them whether or not they are present and it came out that they are already out of the country,” Marcoleta explained.
Initially, the senator mentioned that two contractors had left, but later corrected himself, noting that one has since returned to the Philippines. When asked if the contractor who left is among the top 15 firms previously named by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Marcoleta responded, “I think so,” yet declined to reveal the individual’s identity.
Representation and Possible Sanctions
Further details revealed that the contractor appointed a representative to attend the Senate hearings. However, it remains unclear whether this representative holds the authority to respond on behalf of the company. The panel continues to follow proper procedures and plans to issue a show-cause order if the individual repeatedly fails to appear.
“If this is not observed, we will issue a subpoena. If they don’t adhere to the subpoena, we will be forced to issue a warrant,” Marcoleta warned, signaling possible legal consequences should the contractor remain absent.
Potential Witnesses Step Forward
Meanwhile, the senator noted that several parties have expressed willingness to testify against certain contractors involved in the flood control projects. However, authorities are still verifying the scope and credibility of these potential testimonies.
“We must determine what they would say. Would they name someone? Would they confess something? And then we’ll weigh in,” he added, emphasizing the careful evaluation process ahead.
These updates mark a significant development in the Senate’s ongoing inquiry into flood control project anomalies, highlighting efforts to hold accountable those involved. The investigation continues as authorities seek to uncover the full extent of the alleged corruption.
For more news and updates on flood control projects, visit Filipinokami.com.
