Teves wants to testify in Senate probe on ‘graft-tainted’ flood control projects - counsel

Metro Manila, Philippines - Murder suspect and ex- Negros Oriental Rep. Arnie Teves has offered to testify in the Senate inquiry on supposed anomalous flood control projects, his counsel said.

His counsel, Ferdinand Topacio, released to the media on Tuesday, Aug. 19, a copy of his letter to committee chairman Senator Rodante Marcoleta, which stated the intent of his client.

“Mr. Teves… humbly offers his willingness and intention to testify on how graft is being committed in flood control projects,” the letter, dated Aug. 18, read.

“Mr. Teves believes that his experience as a long-time member of the House of Representatives will be invaluable in providing insights and information on the subject matter of the investigation, to which others may not be privy,” Topacio wrote.

In a message to NewsWatch Plus, Topacio said they “will wait for the invitation” of the Senate, should it decide to include Teves as a resource person.

Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong earlier said some lawmakers receive at least 35 percent cuts from infrastructure projects, including flood control.

Senator Panfilo Lacson added that at least 67 congressmen allegedly got kickbacks for acting as project contractors.

President Ferdinand Marcos previously revealed that 15 contractors bagged a fifth of all the flood control projects nationwide.

In the House of Representatives, a tri-committee will be formed to conduct a review of infrastructure projects.

READ: Premature to probe possible lawmaker-contractors in infra, flood control projects - Ridon