Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo “Ping” Lacson on Saturday reaffirmed that the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee’s investigation into the alleged flood control cash delivery scheme will remain guided by evidence, following remarks from Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC).
Lacson said he respects INC’s position but stressed that differing views do not imply disrespect.
“As chairman of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, I haven’t changed my position about being led by evidence guided only by the prudent and logical way of treating any information that comes to my attention — evaluate and validate the credibility and reliability of both the source as well as the information itself before taking action,” he explained.
His statement followed INC Spokesperson Edwil Zabala’s renewed calls for accountability, citing testimonies of 18 former military personnel claiming involvement in cash deliveries.
Lacson expressed gratitude to INC for its support during his past election campaigns in 2001, 2007, and 2016.
“I have nothing but respect for the INC and will forever be grateful for all the times that they supported me, particularly for the three out of six election campaigns that I participated in, four of which I won,” he said.
He also highlighted areas needing further scrutiny, including the alleged ₱805 billion in cash deliveries, which he said is mathematically inconsistent with admitted kickbacks, and the timing of the February 24 press conference coinciding with the 40th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution and the ICC hearings on former President Rodrigo Duterte’s drug war.
“Similarly, I respect their opinion with regard to the 18 ex-military personnel who presented themselves in an organized press conference at the Club Filipino last Feb. 24. Let me emphasize that having a different opinion does not imply disrespect,” Lacson added.