Half of 15 contractors skip Senate flood control probe

Metro Manila, Philippines - Eight contractors named by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as top recipients of flood control projects skipped the Senate’s first hearing on alleged anomalies in their implementation.

The Senate Blue Ribbon committee agreed to issue subpoenas for the absent contractors. The motion was made by Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa and approved by committee chairperson Rodante Marcoleta. There were no objections.

The eight contractors either ignored the committee’s invitation or submitted excuse letters. They are:

+ Alpha & Omega General Contractor & Development Corp.

+ St. Timothy Construction Corp. (reason: grieving the death of a foster parent)

+ Topnotch Catalyst Builders Inc. (reason: previously scheduled medical procedure)

+ Sunwest Inc. (reason: scheduled family-related leave abroad)

+ Hi-Tone Construction & Development Corp.

+ Royal Crown Monarch Construction & Supplies Corp.

+ Wawao Builders

+ L.R. Tiqui Builders Inc. (reason: health)

“Yung iba siguro ninerbyos [Maybe some of them got nervous],” said Senator Rodante Marcoleta, drawing laughter from the crowd.

Senator Erwin Tulfo urged the committee to require the absent contractors to provide a more detailed explanation for failing to attend.

Meanwhile, Senator Win Gatchalian said company owners who only sent representatives should also be summoned to the next hearing.

Marcos earlier revealed that 15 contractors had collectively secured ₱100 billion worth of flood control projects over the past three years - equivalent to one-fifth of all such projects nationwide.

Citing a preliminary review by the Department of Public Works and Highways, Marcos said ₱545 billion has been spent on flood control since he assumed office in July 2022.