A top lawmaker said there is no clear evidence pointing to a single “overall mastermind” behind the alleged anomalies in government flood control projects, based on testimonies and documents presented before the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee.
Speaking at the Kapihan sa Senado forum, Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson said the evidence instead suggests a fragmented pattern of irregularities involving different actors operating within their respective areas of influence, rather than a centralized scheme controlled by one individual.
“Based on evidence, walang isang taong pwedeng mag-command sa lahat ng regional directors, not even the DPWH secretary,” Lacson said.
He explained that while alleged irregularities have been identified in specific areas, such as Bulacan and Oriental Mindoro, these appear to involve separate networks rather than a unified operation.
“Sa Bulacan, may mastermind. Sa Mindoro (Oriental) may mastermind. Pero may mga interlocking, parang interventions—‘ako maglalagay dito, ako sa region mo, meron ako diyan,’” he said, describing what he called overlapping influence among individuals in various regions.
Lacson added that claims of a single orchestrator should be supported by solid evidence, noting that a true “overall mastermind” would imply a highly organized structure similar to criminal syndicates where instructions flow from a central authority.
For now, he said, the pattern seen in the hearings points more to localized influence rather than a single coordinating figure overseeing all transactions.
When asked whether former Rep. Zaldy Co who has been linked to several flood control projects under scrutiny could be considered the mastermind, Lacson said it would be premature to make such a conclusion without stronger proof.
“May series or number of counts na involved siya. Pero would that make him the mastermind? I don’t know,” he said.
He added that based on current information, there are individuals, including some congressmen working closely with contractors, who may exert influence within specific jurisdictions.
“May particular congressman, not necessarily Zaldy Co, na congressman-contractor na nagma-manipulate within his sphere or area of influence,” Lacson said.
The Senate inquiry into alleged irregularities in flood control projects continues as lawmakers seek to determine the extent of possible collusion between public officials and private contractors.