Senate Blue Ribbon chair Lacson steps down amid probe controversy
Senator Panfilo Lacson announced he will resign as chairman of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee following expressed discontent from fellow senators regarding his handling of investigations into anomalous flood control projects. The move underscores ongoing tensions over how the committee has pursued alleged malfeasance in public works funding and contract integrity.
Why the resignation—what sparked the move
Reports indicate that some senators were unhappy with Lacson’s leadership as the Blue Ribbon chair, particularly related to inviting key respondents to testify. Questions were raised about why former House Speaker Martin Romualdez and Representative Zaldy Co had not been summoned to testify before the committee. The dissent appeared to center on process and perceived imbalances in how the investigations were conducted.
Lacson has also drawn fire for comments suggesting that most members of the 19th Congress had engaged in budget insertions worth more than P100 billion in the 2025 national budget. He described this as a common practice and said, whether rightly or wrongly, that it involved his peers as well. His defenders argue that these statements reflect a broader challenge in budgetary reform, while critics view them as a distraction from due process in high-stakes inquiries.
The chair’s rationale and what comes next
In a statement, Lacson said that Senate committee chairs—like the Blue Ribbon panel—are elected by fellow senators and serve at their peers’ pleasure. “Rightly or wrongly, when quite a number of them have expressed disappointment over how I’m handling the flood control project anomalies, I thought it’s time for me to step aside in favor of another member who they think can handle the committee better,” he stated. He added that no amount of online criticism would deter him from pursuing reform, but peer sentiments demanded a change in leadership.
Lacson also emphasized his ongoing commitment to fighting corruption. He pointed to his previous privilege speeches detailing corruption networks involving the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), substandard and nonexistent flood-control projects, and alleged collusion among DPWH officials, private contractors, and lawmakers to skim funds. He indicated preparations for submitting his resignation letter and suggested he would formalize it when the Senate reconvenes.
Reaction from allies and opponents
Senate Majority Leader Migz Zubiri defended the Senate leadership, saying there is no disunity and noting the value of regular caucuses that foster discussion and consensus. He asserted that governance under Senate President Tito Sotto III has become more predictable and collaborative, countering clips circulating on social media that might imply ongoing discord.
Opposition voices, including the coalition Tindig Pilipinas, voiced support for the current Senate majority and warned against shifts that could shield perceived perpetrators. The group criticized moves by opponents to capture the presidency, arguing that such changes could obscure accountability for alleged wrongdoing from the Duterte and Marcos eras. Nonetheless, the bloc affirmed confidence in the Senate’s current leadership and its ability to advance meaningful legislation, while urging continued vigilance against corruption.
A broader frame: budget realignments, oversight, and public trust
The resignation comes as the Senate debates the DPWH’s proposed 2026 budget and the proper scope of realignments for locally funded infrastructure projects. Critics warn that ad hoc realignments can undermine transparency, while proponents argue they are necessary to address urgent local needs. The central issue remains public trust: can oversight bodies like the Blue Ribbon Committee conduct rigorous investigations while maintaining collegial governance within the Senate?
What this means for the Blue Ribbon Committee
With Lacson stepping aside, another senator is expected to take the helm. The transition will test the Blue Ribbon’s ability to maintain momentum on high-profile inquiries, uphold due process for respondents, and preserve the committee’s credibility with the public. As the Senate resumes sessions, observers will watch how leadership changes affect investigative tempo and the broader fight against waste, fraud, and corruption in public funds.
Looking ahead
While Lacson pledged to continue his anti-corruption work, the exact timeline and implications of his resignation remain to be clarified through formal Senate processes. The episode highlights ongoing debates about transparency, accountability, and the delicate balance between effective oversight and political optics in a polarized environment. The coming weeks will reveal who steps into the Blue Ribbon chair and how the committee will navigate delicate probes into flood control and related infrastructure contracts.
