Senator Panfilo Lacson on Tuesday expressed full support for Malacañang’s plan to create an independent commission to investigate alleged anomalies in flood control and other projects of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
In a radio interview, Lacson said he is ready to share information his office has gathered to aid the investigation.
“In my capacity and with all the information we have so far gathered, I will extend whatever assistance I can offer, if requested, especially so that the DPWH has a dynamic, progressive-minded, and reform-oriented head in the person of Sec. Vince Dizon,” Lacson said.
While welcoming President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s move to finalize an executive order establishing the commission, Lacson stressed that the investigation’s success would depend on holding accountable those involved in corruption.
“Delivering the certainty of punishment is key. If we don’t see anyone being punished, there will be those who will be emboldened to engage in corruption,” he said.
Lacson also praised the reported inclusion of Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong in the commission, saying his participation would boost the panel’s credibility. He noted that Magalong’s concern about resigning as mayor had been addressed, allowing him to join without leaving his post.
According to Malacañang, the commission will be composed of lawyers, prosecutors, and forensic investigators and will act independently in probing irregularities within DPWH projects.
Last month, Lacson revealed details of substandard and ghost flood control projects in a privilege speech, warning that corruption in infrastructure programs continues to drain billions of pesos in public funds.
