Senate Pro Tempore Demands Evidence for Alleged Flood Control Commission Claims

Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson emphasized that the Blue Ribbon Committee requires tangible documentary evidence to substantiate claims accusing senators of receiving commissions from flood control projects. This statement follows allegations made by former DPWH engineer Brice Hernandez, who claimed Senators Jinggoy Estrada and Joel Villanueva obtained a 30 percent share from certain budget allocations.

In a recent radio interview, Lacson said, "We need clear receipts if we are to recommend or forward these charges to the Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI). This is what will validate the allegation that he gave a 30 percent commission to the two senators."

Lacson also revealed that preparations are underway to facilitate Hernandez’s retrieval of the purported documents under Senate supervision. "Without proof, these remain mere allegations, but if evidence exists, we can recommend to the ICI or Ombudsman to pursue legal action," he added.

The Senate official confirmed that certain budget items align with Hernandez's claims. These include approximately PHP600 million allocated to flood control projects linked to Villanueva in the 2023 budget and PHP355 million connected to Estrada in the 2025 budget.

Both senators have categorically denied the accusations. Estrada welcomed the ICI investigation, asserting that it would vindicate him. He described Hernandez as an "unreliable witness" and stated, "The ICI investigation will begin, and my name will finally be cleared of baseless accusations."

Villanueva expressed emotional disappointment, categorizing the allegations as attempts to damage his personal and familial reputation, as well as his standing within his church community. He said, "It is distressing because this gossip aims to destroy me, my name, our family, and, above all, the church I represent."

During the hearing, other former DPWH officials gave varying testimonies. One claimed Villanueva had requested a budget of up to PHP1.5 billion but was allocated only PHP600 million, while another denied any such requests had been made.