Manila: Senate President Francis 'Chiz' Escudero on Tuesday confirmed that subpoenas for contractors and officials linked to alleged ghost and substandard flood control projects have been signed and are expected to be served within the week.

According to Philippines News Agency, Escudero stated that he signed the documents last week upon the request of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, chaired by Senator Rodante Marcoleta. The committee is leading the inquiry into anomalous flood control projects flagged by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Senator Panfilo Lacson.

Escudero mentioned that all the requests of the Blue Ribbon Committee were signed last week, emphasizing that contractors and officials summoned are duty-bound to appear. He noted that the Senate has the authority to compel attendance and warned of the consequences for non-compliance.

He further elaborated that the investigation is crucial due to the magnitude of alleged corruption in the Department of Public Works and Highways' flood control program. Accusations of ghost projects and substandard works have persisted despite trillions of pesos in spending since 2011.

Escudero issued a stern warning, stating that if the subpoena is not complied with, an arrest warrant would be the next step, which he would not hesitate to sign. The Blue Ribbon Committee is expected to resume hearings next week to determine accountability among contractors, DPWH officials, and politicians allegedly involved in the anomalous projects.