Screengrab from Congress PH

The House of Representatives is set to launch a sweeping investigation into alleged “rackets and kickbacks” tied to government flood-control projects.

According to House Committee on Public Accounts Chairperson and Bicol Saro Party-list Representative Terry Ridon, a joint inquiry will be conducted in aid of legislation by three committees—the Public Accounts Committee, the Public Works Committee, and the Good Government Committee—to identify who may be involved in the irregularities.

“It is most important for them to be able to name names,” Ridon stressed. “And the committee can, in fact, serve as a platform for them to make the actual accusation against legislators—whether senators or congressmen—if they're actually involved.”

The lawmaker emphasized that the process will be fair: both accusers and any lawmakers or contractors named in the corruption allegations will be given equal opportunity to present their side.

Ridon also assured the public that the credibility of the investigation will remain intact, even if some members of Congress end up being implicated. “In the same manner, those named by legislators as contractors allegedly involved in corruption will also be provided the same platform,” he said.

Through the upcoming hearings, the Tri-Committee aims not only to uncover the truth but also to recommend reforms to safeguard the integrity and effectiveness of infrastructure projects—particularly those meant to protect communities from flooding.