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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Lacson says Taguig infra project probe could lead to plunder charges

Lacson says Taguig infra project probe could lead to plunder charges

Published Jul 25, 2026 03:55 pm
Senator Panfilo "Ping" Lacson said those who may be implicated in the ongoing investigation into allegedly anomalous slope protection and drainage projects in Taguig City could face plunder charges if the evidence establishes a series of unlawful transactions involving at least ₱50 million.
Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo
Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo "Ping" Lacson (Senate PRIB photo)
In a radio interview on Friday night, Lacson said the investigation has reached a stage where prosecutors may be able to pursue the non-bailable offense, provided the legal requirements are met.
"Kung series of acts tapos P50 million (ang involved), walang ibang mapupuntahan kundi plunder (If it is a series of acts involving at least P50 million, there's no other way to go but to file plunder charges)," he said.
Lacson said the investigation has gained momentum in recent days, noting that the evidence gathered so far has strengthened the case. A day earlier, he described the probe as having reached the point of "SHOOT SA KALDERO," suggesting that investigators were zeroing in on those responsible.
The senator also said his team continued working through the weekend to pursue additional leads and avoid losing momentum in the investigation.
In a post on X on Saturday, Lacson said investigators remained focused on bringing the inquiry to its "logical conclusion."
"WORKING ON A WEEKEND: today, a Saturday, we haven’t slowed down in following up the leads to maintain the momentum gained since we started investigating the anomalous slope protection and drainage projects in Taguig. Our goal is to reach its logical conclusion," he wrote.
The projects under investigation are located in Taguig City, the political bailiwick of Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano.
Lacson maintained that the inquiry is not driven by political or personal considerations but by the need to hold accountable anyone found to have participated in wrongdoing.
"This is not about friendship or personal fights, this is about accountability. Kung walang accountability bakit ko pipilitin (This is not about friendship or personal fights but about accountability. If there is no accountability, why would I push through with the investigation)?" he said.

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