A “blue ribbon” session linked to the Cayetano bloc pushed through on Tuesday, June 16, at a different events venue in Mandaluyong City after the original location backed out, with the inquiry expected to tackle the alleged flood control scandal in the country.

The political group PDP Laban announced that the hearing would proceed as scheduled under the leadership of Sen. Rodante Marcoleta, despite a last-minute change in venue.

The development came after Doublegem EDSA Garden Events Place said in an official statement that the scheduled event would “no longer proceed as originally planned,” clarifying that it only served as an independent venue provider and had no role in organizing the activity.

Attendees had already begun gathering at the new events place in Mandaluyong City, including individuals who identified themselves as former associates of businessman Zaldy Co.

Among those reportedly present at the hearing were Sen. Imee Marcos, former Ilocos Sur Gov. Luis “Chavit” Singson, and lawyer Ferdinand Topacio. Retired military personnel affiliated with the United People’s Initiative (UPI) were also in attendance.

Other lawmakers aligned with the Cayetano bloc were expected to join the proceedings.

The hearing, branded as a “blue ribbon” inquiry by the group, comes amid ongoing political tensions and separate developments in the Senate.

However, other government officials and agencies have clarified that the event is not an official proceeding of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee.