Baguio City Mayor Benjie Magalong has accepted the challenge of Bicol Saro Party-list Representative Terry Ridon to present evidence supporting his allegations against certain lawmakers.
This came after Magalong revealed that some legislators allegedly receive kickbacks ranging from 25 to 40 percent from infrastructure and flood control projects, citing information from what he described as reliable sources.
Magalong said he is willing to face any investigation to be conducted by the House of Representatives and even suggested inviting President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to join the probe.
“Ipatawag na lang nila ako pero maganda rin siguro na ipatawag din o imbitahin din nila si Presidente,” Magalong stated.
According to the mayor, his information came from trustworthy sources inside the House of Representatives. However, he admitted it would be difficult to gather solid evidence since lawmakers allegedly involved in such anomalies often leave no paper trail linking them to the deals.
“Talagang mahirap mag-imbestiga na madetermine mo yung link with the politicians kasi nga karamihan jan wala namang pinipirmahan. Pero kung magsasalita ‘yung kontraktor, kasi makikita mo kaagad,” Magalong explained.
He added, “Doon pa lang sa ebidensya at mga documents tapos pupuntahan mo yung lugar, makikita mo talaga. Tama yung sinabi ni Presidente, yung iba palpak, yung iba guni-guni lang, yung iba gumuho na.”
Magalong also echoed Senator Ping Lacson’s call for an investigation into anomalies, particularly in flood control projects, to determine exactly where taxpayers’ money was allegedly squandered.