Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson signaled on Tuesday that the investigation into anomalous flood control projects could soon be concluded, as the chamber seeks to move forward with other priority projects.

During a "Kapihan sa Senado" media briefing, Lacson outlined plans to maximize the investigation process of government-initiated and substandard flood control projects while eyeing to segue into other projects.

“Well, I think we can at least wrap up the flood control projects, including the GOS and substandard ones, and then segue to other projects,” the SP Pro Tempore said.

He noted that several civilian resource persons had volunteered to assist in examining budget allocations in detail.

“Unprogrammed funds will be removed, except for foreign-assisted projects. Special-purpose funds, contingencies, and quick-reaction funds will remain to address emergencies,” Lacson said.

The senator also emphasized a push for full transparency throughout the budget process.

“We agreed with the Senate President and Senator Gatchalian that all discussions will remain fully transparent up to the bicameral conference committee (BICAM). We will limit ourselves to reconciling provisions where the House and Senate disagree. Any provisions not appearing in either version will no longer be included,” he explained.

Lacson described this approach as a significant step toward ensuring openness and accountability from initial deliberations to the final enrolled budget.

“This is the real intent of the bicameral conference, especially for the budget—to reconcile differing provisions and make the process transparent,” he added.

With these measures, the Senate aims to close the chapter on the flood control probe while strengthening procedural transparency in the passage of the national budget.