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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider INFRACOM launches unbiased flood control probe, says house spox

INFRACOM launches unbiased flood control probe, says house spox

Published Sep 1, 2025 09:57 pm
House of Representatives spokesperson Atty. Princess Abante (Photo courtesy of Bong Son)
House of Representatives spokesperson Atty. Princess Abante (Photo courtesy of Bong Son)
In a press conference held in Manila, House of Representatives Spokesperson Atty. Princess Abante assured the public that the upcoming investigation by the Congressional Committee on Infrastructure (INFRACOM) into the controversial flood control projects will be impartial, evidence-based, and solution-driven.
Speaking during the MACHRA Balitaan forum organized by the Manila City Hall Reporters’ Association (MACHRA) at the Harbor View Restaurant in Ermita, Manila, Abante emphasized that INFRACOM will investigate thoroughly and will not hesitate to scrutinize both executive and legislative actors—provided that concrete proof is presented.
“Hindi puwedeng basta mag-akusa. Dapat may pruweba. Diyan papasok ang INFRACOM (You can't just throw accusations. There must be evidence. That’s where INFRACOM comes in),” Abante said.
She explained that the goal of the inquiry is not only to identify individuals to blame, but also to expose systemic issues and propose meaningful reforms.
Abante added that if any lawmaker is found to be involved in any wrongdoing, the House is open to creating an independent body to ensure impartiality.
"May mga mekanismo naman tayo para disiplinahin ang mga miyembro kung kinakailangan (We have mechanisms in place to discipline members, if necessary)."
Abante also clarified the role of lawmakers when it comes to infrastructure projects, saying their job is mainly to represent the needs of their constituents.
“Ang trabaho ng Congressman ay i-represent ang pangangailangan ng distrito. Kapag may hiningi ang LGU, isinusulong nila ito sa mga departamento (The role of a Congressman is to represent the needs of the district. If an LGU makes a request, they push it through the proper departments)."
“Ang DBM ang nagko-consolidate at saka ito aakyat sa Kongreso para himayin at i-apruba ang budget (The DBM consolidates all proposals and submits it to Congress for review and approval),” she added.
She stressed that it is not within the power of legislators to implement or approve permits for flood control projects, noting that it is the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) that handles implementation.
Meanwhile, Abante responded to allegations made by Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, saying that INFRACOM Chairman Rep. Terry Ridon will allow Magalong to present his evidence under oath.
“Welcome ang batikos. Pero dapat hindi blanket accusation. Pangalanan, huwag idamay ang lahat (We welcome criticism, but it shouldn't be a blanket accusation. Name names, don't drag everyone down),” she expressed.

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