House Infra-Committee Investigates Flood Control Projects
Bicol Saro party-list Rep. Terry Ridon has vowed that the House of Representatives’ infra-committee will thoroughly investigate anomalous flood control projects across the country. The committee will hold accountable anyone involved, including members of Congress, officials reported.
During the first hearing of the infra-committee on Tuesday, Ridon emphasized that if the probe uncovers the participation of House or Senate members, the findings will be forwarded to an independent commission set up by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to ensure impartiality.
Commitment to Transparency and Accountability
As the lead presiding officer of the infra-committee and head of the House committee on public accounts, Ridon assured the public that all findings will be promptly submitted to the independent commission. “We will also submit all the cases and projects that will be named in the course of inquiry, including lawmakers — congressmen or senators — so that Congress would not be dragged into an issue of conflict of interest, and to show that this hearing is not covering up for any lawmaker,” Ridon said in Filipino.
He also clarified that the investigation will focus on the nature of the projects rather than their location, timing, or source of funding. “It is no longer important where the project was implemented… as long as it is a ghost, substandard, or overpriced project, the committee will scrutinize it,” Ridon noted.
Scope of the Investigation
Ridon explained that the committee will examine projects regardless of whether they were funded through the National Expenditures Program or congressional initiatives. “It is also not important who are involved in the project, regardless if it is a high-ranking official, a contractor, a congressman or a senator,” he added, underscoring the committee’s impartial stance.
The investigation was launched in response to President Marcos Jr.’s call during his fourth State of the Nation Address, where he condemned government officials and firms allegedly profiting from flood control projects while many Filipinos suffer from flood-related hardships.
Highlighting Integrity Amidst Corruption
Beyond uncovering corruption, Ridon stressed the importance of recognizing the many dedicated and honest government workers. “One of the most important parts of the President’s speech in his Sona is when he said that we should not lose hope, ‘because the Filipino is naturally brave, excellent, hard-working, strong, and kind,’” he said.
“In the middle of our goal of holding those who abused infrastructure and flood control funds accountable, we also want to prove to the country that there are good government officials and employees remaining,” Ridon added.
Committee Coordination and Actions
The investigation involves three House committees: public accounts, public works, and good government and public accountability. The hearing began with the infra-committee requiring its members to disclose any financial or business interests that might pose conflicts.
Following a motion approved by Ridon, all members of the megapanel must submit a disclosure within five days confirming they have no conflict of interest related to the inquiry, sources said.
Additionally, the infra-committee issued subpoenas against contractors who failed to attend the hearing, including Sarah Discaya of Alpha & Omega General Construction and Mark Arevalo of Wawao Builders Corp. Subpoenas were also sent to representatives of St. Timothy Construction Corp., Royal Crown Monarch Construction, and Syms Construction Trading.
These measures demonstrate the committee’s resolve to pursue the truth and ensure responsible parties are held accountable.
For more news and updates on flood control projects, visit Filipinokami.com.
