The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee formally opened its inquiry into alleged irregularities in flood control projects on Monday, September 1, 2025. Leading the hearing, Senator Rodante Marcoleta delivered a firm message to government officials and resource persons, warning them against evasive responses and urging full transparency.

“To all officials and resource persons present, do not test this committee’s patience. The people are watching, and we will not tolerate excuses,” Marcoleta declared in a mix of Filipino and English. He emphasized the need for truthful answers, substantive details, and genuine accountability.

The senator laid out clear expectations for the inquiry. First, he demanded the complete disclosure of all ghost projects, stressing that selective submissions would not be accepted. Second, he called for the identification of individuals behind the General Appropriations Act (GAA) allocations that funded questionable projects.

Third, Marcoleta sought a comprehensive report on regulatory compliance and oversight lapses, underscoring the role of responsible agencies. He also urged the immediate issuance of immigration lookout bulletins to prevent key figures from leaving the country amid the investigation.

Lastly, Marcoleta insisted on decisive administrative action against officials found complicit, saying accountability must go beyond rhetoric. The inquiry, he noted, is crucial to restoring public trust in government spending.