House to issue subpoena vs. 5 contractors absent in first infra deals hearing
Metro Manila, Philippines - The House of Representatives began its investigation into the alleged corruption in infrastructure projects on Tuesday, Sept. 2.
The House infrastructure committee – composed of the panels of public accounts, public works and highways, and good government and public accountability – led the inquiry.
Of the 16 contractors invited, 11 attended. The joint committee will issue subpoenas to the following contractors for skipping the pilot hearing:
+ Alpha and Omega General Contractor and Development
+ St. Timothy Construction
+ Royal Crown Monarch Construction and Supplies
+ Wawao builders
+ Syms Construction Trading
Embattled contractor Sarah Discaya owns Alpha and Omega General Contractor and Development and St. Timothy Construction.
READ: Discaya admits family’s 9 companies bid for same projects
Mamamayang Liberal party-list Rep. Leila de Lima expressed concern on the probe’s impartiality as some House members were accused of benefitting from the infrastructure projects.
“In plain terms, I object to the House itself investigating this very significant, even sensitive matter. When the House of Representatives investigates anomalies in flood control projects, we must ask: Is it wise? Is it prudent? Is it proper for this chamber to investigate itself, when
there are already reports that some members here may be involved in these very projects?” de Lima inquired.
Akbayan party-list Rep. Chel Diokno moved that all panel members “make a full disclosure of their financial, business, or pecuniary interest that may be directly or indirectly affected by any investigation into the government’s past or present flood control projects.”
Senator Panfilo Lacson earlier said he received information that at least 67 House members acted as contractors of government infrastructure deals. Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong also said lawmakers receive kickbacks from the projects.
