ILOILO – The investigation into Iloilo’s multibillion-peso flood control projects has hit a wall, as the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) admitted it cannot call a hearing without both a formal motion and the key documents still pending from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
“As of now, our office has not received any materials from the DPWH regional office, so we cannot call for a committee hearing,” vice governor and presiding officer Nathalie Ann Debuque told Panay News.
The SP had been expected to deliberate on the flood control issue following the recent privilege speech of 5th District Provincial Board Member Rolex Suplico pressing for a probe. But the absence of documents has stalled progress, despite repeated discussions during sessions.
DPWH Region 6 officer-in-charge Regional Director Joel Limpengco confirmed that the regional office had already endorsed the matter to the Iloilo 3rd District Engineering Office.
“But, we will ensure that this is completed with proper coordination and collaboration with the regional office… to maintain clarity and efficiency in addressing the issues raised,” he said.
Debuque clarified that the only step taken so far was the passage of a resolution requesting documents. “The only resolution that has been passed is the request for documents from the DPWH regional office, so there’s no basis for calling a committee hearing, as there has not yet been a motion to refer any subject matter to the committee,” she explained.
She further stressed: “Waay man may nagtindog nga iban nga Board Members to widen the scope (of the investigation). But, technically, bisan sa action point sa privilege speech ni Board Rolex, sa last niya, ang iya gin-request were documents.
Board Member Nielito Tupas had manifested a desire to broaden the scope of the investigation, but no formal motion was also made. Suplico, meanwhile, has remained focused on three specific projects in his district.
Nevertheless, Debuque stressed: “Ang aton Sangguniang Panlalawigan is for accountable, transparent, and responsive legislation. So, open kita kon ano ang motion, ano ang hinyo kag ma-agree-han sang body.”
She also underscored her impartiality: “I cannot encourage any particular motion as presiding officer. I must remain impartial. If they want to place it on the agenda to discuss flood control, I am open to that.”
Early this week, Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. has thrown his support behind a full probe.
“I encourage a thorough investigation into any alleged wrongdoings related to our flood control projects. It’s essential that we not only examine the current status of these projects but also ensure that they are being executed properly. You can investigate all and any alleged wrongdoings and any status of the projects, we need to do that,” the governor said.
Data from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s “Sumbong sa Pangulo” transparency website shows that since 2022, over 160 flood control projects worth billions have been carried out in Iloilo./PN
