Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo “Ping” Lacson assured that the Senate remains undeterred despite the possible arrest of some lawmakers linked to alleged anomalous flood control projects.
Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla previously said arrest warrants could be issued this month against incumbent Senators Chiz Escudero, Joel Villanueva, Jinggoy Estrada, and former Senators Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. and current Makati City Mayor Nancy Binay.
“Our enthusiasm and desire to pass bills is still there,” Lacson said in a statement on Sunday, December 14.
He acknowledged that the impending arrests are a “bitter pill to swallow,” but emphasized the need to end corruption in infrastructure projects.
“Filipinos get hit twice — by corruption in the series of flood control projects, and by alleged extortion of taxpayers by corrupt BIR (Bureau of Internal Revenue) personnel,” Lacson said.
“Corruption must stop. There are those who just don’t know when to stop,” he added.
The Ombudsman noted that cases against senators could be filed this week, depending on the strength of evidence. Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano said some officials may face warrants sooner, as investigations are at different stages.
Remulla is expected to release the list of high-profile targets on Wednesday, which will include data on cases under fact-finding, preliminary investigation, and those ready for filing.
The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) recommended charges of plunder, bribery, and violations of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act against Estrada and Villanueva.