Manila: Senate President Pro Tempore and committee chair Panfilo Lacson announced on Tuesday that the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee's report on alleged flood control anomalies implicates current Senators Francis Escudero, Joel Villanueva, and Jinggoy Estrada.

According to Philippines News Agency, Lacson emphasized that while the Senate can recommend further investigation and case buildup, the authority to file charges resides with the Department of Justice and the Office of the Ombudsman. The report outlines multiple possible violations based on evidence presented during the committee hearings. Lacson noted that any changes to the findings must be backed by evidence already on record.

Lacson clarified that the draft report is undergoing final edits to improve clarity but stressed that no substantive changes have been made to the committee's conclusions. "Walang nabago. Walang substantive na na-revise, pareho pa rin. 'Yun lang, 'yung language (Nothing was changed. There were no substantive revisions; it's the same. Only the language)," Lacson stated in a chance interview. The refinements aim to prevent misinterpretation of the recommendations, particularly in language that might suggest directing the filing of court cases.

Lacson further explained that the wording adjustments were recommended by members of the Senate majority and were not influenced by minority objections or leadership disputes within the chamber. Once the edits are completed, the report is expected to be circulated for signatures. "Kung matapos mamaya, then tomorrow (If it's finished today, then tomorrow)," Lacson said regarding the anticipated timing of its distribution.