Manila: Sen. Raffy Tulfo announced that the minority bloc will not take part in the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing concerning alleged flood control anomalies unless they are granted seats on the panel.
According to Philippines News Agency, Tulfo expressed concerns in a television interview regarding the current makeup of the Blue Ribbon Committee, highlighting that the minority lacks representation. This absence prevents them from questioning resource persons or moving to cite witnesses in contempt. Tulfo criticized the committee's legitimacy, citing Rule 10, Section 13, Paragraph 2, which mandates 17 members, whereas the current count is only nine, or 12 including ex-officio members, thus missing five members.
Tulfo emphasized that without minority members, the bloc's ability to fully engage in the hearing is compromised, particularly in verifying testimonies and citing witnesses in contempt when necessary. He stated that only committee members have the authority to make such motions, which require a second from another member.
The statement from Tulfo followed an announcement by Blue Ribbon Committee Chairperson Sen. Pia Cayetano, confirming that invitations were sent out for the continuation of the inquiry on Thursday. Cayetano expressed anticipation for the cooperation of all invited resource persons and agencies as the committee continues its legislative and accountability duties.
Tulfo reiterated the minority's support for the flood control investigation but insisted on equal representation from both majority and minority blocs. The Senate Blue Ribbon inquiry is part of an ongoing conflict between these blocs amidst a Senate impasse and the arrest of Sen. Jinggoy Estrada linked to alleged flood control anomalies.
In a Facebook livestream with Senator Rodante Marcoleta, Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano underscored the importance of witnesses in revealing the 'whole truth' regarding the alleged irregularities in flood control projects. Cayetano advocated for the hearings to proceed, as new testimonies and information could illuminate the extent of these irregularities.
Cayetano also noted that the Blue Ribbon platform allows for testimonies under oath, enabling the public to assess the veracity of the statements. Invitations were sent to the Office of the Ombudsman, Department of Public Works and Highways, and Department of Budget and Management to aid in determining the status of investigations, the number of alleged ghost projects, and the public funds involved.
Marcoleta, expected to play a significant role in the hearing, called for public support and vigilance, emphasizing the potential impact of the proceedings on the country's fight against corruption. He urged the public to remain attentive, warning that this could be the final opportunity for truth and justice to prevail.
Cayetano mentioned that the majority bloc withheld quorum as a parliamentary strategy to prevent perceived attempts to seize control of Senate committees and disrupt ongoing investigations.
