Chiz: Evidence-based approach of Marcos admin key to flood control probe

Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero on Tuesday praised President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for pursuing an evidence-driven investigation into alleged irregularities in the flood control budget—an approach that has already resulted in the filing of corruption and malversation cases. He emphasized that accountability must prevail and warned against attempts to divert attention that shield the guilty while harming the innocent.

During the Senate’s plenary deliberations on the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) budget, Escudero noted Secretary Vince Dizon’s statement that the administration has chosen to follow the evidence, even when the findings may be politically sensitive.

“Binabati ko ang administrasyon dahil hindi sila nagpadala sa anumang script o sarswela na naglalayong ilihis ang totoong mga salarin, gaya ng binigyang-diin ko noong huli akong nagsalita sa Senado,” the senator said. “Ayon mismo kay Secretary Dizon, sinusundan lamang nila—ayon sa utos ng Pangulong Marcos—kung saan sila dadalhin ng ebidensya.”

The Ombudsman has already filed corruption and malversation charges before the Sandiganbayan against former Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co, former DPWH Undersecretary Wilfredo Bernardo, former DPWH Bulacan 1st District Engineer Henry Alcantara, former Assistant District Engineer Brice Hernandez, and executives of Sunwest Corporation over alleged anomalies in flood control projects.

The Independent Commission for Infrastructure, created by the President to lead the probe, has also submitted documents to the Ombudsman regarding the possible involvement of former House Speaker and Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez, to determine any administrative or criminal liability under the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards, and other relevant laws.

Escudero commended the administration’s resolve to uphold justice even when the investigation implicates individuals close to the President. He noted that Marcos’ instruction to “follow the evidence” has ensured that accountability remains the priority.

“Alam kong hindi madali para kay Pangulong Marcos nang malaman niyang posibleng masangkot ang kanyang pinsan. Kaya binabati ko siya sa kanyang determinasyon na panagutin ang dapat managot at sa pagtutol sa anumang dibersyon, lalo na’t marami nang inosente ang nadamay sa tangkang paglilihis,” he said.

The senator also reminded the public that while outrage against corruption is valid, judgments must always be anchored on verified facts—not speculation or political drama.

“Dapat tayong magalit sa korupsyon at pang-aabuso sa kapangyarihan. Ngunit huwag tayong basta-basta maghusga. Dapat tayong maging mapanuri sa mga ‘mema’ na ang layunin ay pag-away-awayin tayo—hindi lamang sa Senado kundi sa buong bansa,” Escudero concluded.