The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee on Monday opened its inquiry into the controversial flood control projects, with Senator Rodante Marcoleta immediately pressing Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manuel Bonoan on the President’s own observations about alleged irregularities.

Bonoan was left without a clear response when asked about the observations from the Office of the President. Among the findings was that ₱545 billion worth of flood control contracts went to only 15 out of the 2,409 accredited contractors nationwide.

The senator stressed that just five of these firms hold the majority of flood control projects. However, despite being summoned, only seven of the 15 contractors appeared at the hearing today.

Marcoleta also flagged that 6,021 projects failed to specify the exact type of flood control structures being built, a point he called a “disturbing” observation from the President himself.