Senate President Pro Tempore and Blue Ribbon chair Panfilo “Ping” Lacson said attempts to block the flood control scandal probe will fail, stressing the public won’t forget the issue.
He is set to deliver a privilege speech on May 4 or 5 to present his Chairman’s Progress Report after the panel’s partial report failed to get enough signatures to reach the plenary.
Lacson said public anger remains high, describing the controversy as “Napoles 2” but worse, noting that lives and livelihoods were lost. He said it is his duty to update Filipinos after several hearings, especially with claims of cover-ups and new evidence coming out.
He also pushed back against senators refusing to sign the report, saying they can express reservations or file separate opinions but should not block it from moving forward.
The report may be shared with the DOJ and Ombudsman for case buildup, as the panel eyes resuming hearings before Congress adjourns on June 6. Those who may be invited include former Speaker Martin Romualdez, former Gov. Luis Singson, and ex-soldiers who allegedly delivered cash.
At the same time, Lacson said the Senate may convene as an impeachment court once it receives the Articles of Impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio, but the trial proper may begin in June.
He said at least three weeks are needed for procedures such as summons, replies, and a pre-trial conference to define issues and evidence, avoiding confusion seen in the Corona trial.
If a Supreme Court TRO is issued, the impeachment court will discuss and decide, but unless restrained, proceedings will continue. Senators have also been reminded to act as judges and base their decisions on evidence.
Around P27 million remains available to fund the possible impeachment trial from the 2025 budget.IMT
