Manila: The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee is poised to propose legislative reforms aimed at fortifying the Office of the Ombudsman. This initiative comes in the wake of an investigation into alleged irregularities in flood control projects, as announced by Senate President Pro Tempore and committee chair Panfilo Lacson.

According to Philippines News Agency, the committee is finalizing recommendations that include establishing a dedicated law enforcement unit to expedite investigations and case development. Additionally, the proposal suggests empowering the Ombudsman to deputize private lawyers as prosecutors. Lacson emphasized the necessity of equipping the Office of the Ombudsman with its own law enforcement arm to enhance its capabilities in applying for search warrants and conducting follow-up investigations into corruption cases.

Lacson also highlighted the importance of deputizing private lawyers to aid in prosecutions due to the current understaffing of the Ombudsman's office. These proposals align with the committee's mandate to conduct legislative inquiries, particularly as the flood control hearings have revealed deficiencies in existing laws and enforcement mechanisms.

The Blue Ribbon Committee is nearing the completion of its partial committee report, which will be presented to the plenary. Lacson noted that one or two additional hearings might be necessary to conclude the inquiry. He assured that the report's findings are based on substantial evidence.

Clarifying the scope of the committee's work, Lacson stated that the subpoenas issued by the Department of Justice against individuals involved in the flood control controversy will not impede the Senate's investigation. The panel remains focused on crafting reforms to address systemic weaknesses.