The House of Representatives has reactivated its special tri-committee for the 20th Congress, this time to investigate questionable flood control projects that failed to protect communities during recent typhoons.
Under House Resolution No. 145, adopted on Wednesday night, the body will now be known as the “House Infra Comm.” It brings together three panels: the Committees on Public Accounts, Good Government and Public Accountability, and Public Works and Highways. The committees are chaired by Bicol Saro Party-list Rep. Terry Ridon, Manila 3rd District Rep. Joel Chua, and Surigao del Sur 1st District Rep. Romeo Momo Sr.
The resolution directs the tri-committee to call on individuals with knowledge of anomalies to testify in hearings and identify contractors, officials, and private parties allegedly involved in the irregularities. It was passed through a simple voice vote amid mounting corruption allegations.
Mamamayang Liberal Party-list Rep. Leila de Lima stood in opposition, warning of a possible credibility issue if lawmakers probe projects where some of their colleagues may be implicated.
“I take the position that it would not be prudent on the part of this House as it might entail possible conflict of interest,” De Lima said. “It could involve possible issues of conflict of interest, possible collusion, possible conspiracy with the big ticket contractors.”
Despite her concerns, the measure gained support from the majority of the over 300-member chamber, effectively reconstituting the controversial tri-committee with its new mandate.
