THE Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, now reorganized under the leadership of Senator Erwin Tulfo, officially resumed its inquiry into anomalous flood control projects on Monday, June 8, 2026, vowing to pursue full accountability over alleged kickback schemes in government infrastructure spending.
During the session, representatives from various government agencies presented updates on recent developments, including the ongoing prosecution of individuals already charged in connection with the multi‑million‑peso scam.
A key development during the hearing was the notable absence of the 18 individuals — previously identified as former security personnel or bodyguards — who had earlier come forward claiming to possess direct knowledge of the irregularities. Despite being served with official notices and invited to testify, none of them appeared before the committee to give their statements or substantiate the allegations they had previously made public. Their non‑appearance comes after they had testified in a separate hearing convened by the rival Senate bloc led by Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, where they claimed to have delivered suitcases of cash to lawmakers.
Committee chair Senator Tulfo expressed frustration over their failure to attend, stressing that their testimony is critical to establishing the truth behind the money trail and identifying all those involved.
He emphasized that under the reorganized committee, the investigation will be thorough, impartial, and fully compliant with Senate rules, unlike the earlier proceedings which he described as unauthorized and politically motivated. Tulfo warned that the panel is considering issuing subpoenas or even citing them for contempt should they continue to ignore invitations without valid reason.
Agency officials meanwhile informed the committee that legal actions are moving forward, with cases already filed against contractors and public officials implicated in the scheme. They assured the panel that all evidence gathered will be consolidated and used to ensure that those responsible are held criminally and administratively liable. With the probe now back in full swing, Tulfo said the committee will leave no stone unturned and will compel the attendance of key witnesses to ensure that the public gets the complete and accurate picture of the corruption scandal.
