Lanao del sur: Lanao del Sur 1st District Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong expressed support for Senate Blue Ribbon Committee Chairman and Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson's statement affirming that no evidence links former Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez to the flood control controversy. Adiong emphasized that investigations should be based on facts rather than speculation.
According to Philippine News Agency, Adiong highlighted Lacson's remarks about the importance of due process, stating that allegations must be supported by concrete evidence, affidavits, and documentation rather than rumors. He stressed the necessity of evidence-based inquiries and criticized political noise and pressure tactics.
Adiong pointed out that Lacson's position, as shared in a radio interview, clarified that the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee's actions are guided solely by evidence. Lacson noted the absence of firm proof implicating Romualdez, with no direct allegations substantiated by any witness except Orly Guteza, whose claims have not been verified.
Lacson emphasized the lack of corroboration, mentioning that the supposed witness did not testify before relevant authorities such as the Department of Justice, the Ombudsman, or the Independent Commission for Infrastructure. Adiong reiterated the importance of substantiated evidence in pursuing cases, advocating for fairness for public officials.
Adiong also addressed claims of external influence on the investigation, asserting Lacson's independence and rejecting conspiracy theories. He encouraged all parties to let institutions function without partisan interference, urging critics to cease baseless accusations.
Deputy Speaker Ronaldo Puno echoed this sentiment, agreeing with Lacson's assertion of no evidence against Romualdez. Puno emphasized that accountability should always be based on facts and due process, dismissing conjecture and political pressure.
Puno underscored the Senate's commitment to evidence-led investigations and reiterated the principle that due process must guide any inquiry. He called for objective investigations, including those involving current senators, free from partisan agendas.
Deputy Speaker Paolo Ortega V of La Union also responded to Lacson's statement, urging critics to stop political pressure and speculative rhetoric. Ortega stressed that accountability cannot rely on rumors and highlighted the importance of affidavits and documentation.
Ortega warned that baseless political attacks undermine public trust and detract from genuine reform efforts. He advocated for clarity over chaos and urged a focus on evidence, calling for an end to politicizing issues without proof.
