Manila: The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee will invite a ‘very important witness’ whose testimony could complete the chain of evidence and lead to possible prosecution and conviction in the ongoing probe into alleged fund irregularities, Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo ‘Ping’ Lacson said Tuesday. Speaking at the Kapihan sa Senado forum, Lacson, who confirmed he is set to return as the panel’s chairperson, said the witness is finalizing an affidavit supported by ledgers, digital files and other records.

According to Philippines News Agency, Lacson emphasized that the witness’s information could wrap up everything necessary for prosecution and conviction. The witness, referred to Lacson through a conduit, could reveal new information not previously disclosed by other resource persons. He advised the witness to only present claims backed by evidence to avoid damaging reputations without proof.

Lacson mentioned that the committee’s next hearing might be scheduled on Nov. 14, which could also discuss issuing a subpoena to retired Marine T/Sgt. Orly Guteza through the office of Senator Rodante Marcoleta. He stated that Guteza’s statements would need corroboration through another witness or documentary evidence to be credible. Lacson noted that while Guteza was the only one who implicated former Speaker Martin Romualdez, several witnesses had linked former Rep. Zaldy Co to the same controversy.

Lacson suggested that Guteza should face the Department of Justice (DOJ) or the Office of the Ombudsman if his intent is genuine prosecution. He assured that the Blue Ribbon Committee would pursue the inquiry with fairness and impartiality, emphasizing that there would be no protection or favoritism, and the committee would follow where the evidence leads.