Estrada says no evidence of links to flood scam – BusinessWorld Online
SENATOR Jose “Jinggoy” P. Estrada on Monday said that he “remains confident” that there are no documents that will link him to anomalous flood control projects, according to his spokesperson.
“Senator Estrada has always been firm and consistent in denying these allegations and we remain confident that no evidence exists linking him to any supposed kickbacks in flood control projects,” the senator’s Spokesperson Bianca Isabel D. Soriano said in a message to reporters.
The Philippine Senate is conducting a probe on anomalous flood control projects, where an estimated P500 billion has been allocated since 2022.
Earlier, former Department of Public Works and Highways district engineer Brice P. Hernandez had tagged Mr. Estrada and Senator Emmanuel Joel J. Villanueva for allegedly benefiting from flood control contracts. Both have denied their involvement.
Ms. Soriano added that there is “no valid ground or sound reason” for the Senator to inhibit from the Blue Ribbon Committee hearing set for Tuesday, Sept. 23.
“He has consistently denied the baseless allegations against him and remains committed to performing his duties,” she said.
Earlier, Senator Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson said that he has received the documents provided by the ex-Public Works engineer linking lawmakers and government officials to budget insertions and kickbacks from flood control projects.
Mr. Estrada said earlier that he intends to file criminal charges against Mr. Hernandez. — Adrian H. Halili