Senate to pursue independent probe commission

The Senate will continue pursuing its proposed Independent People’s Commission (IPC) to investigate alleged infrastructure anomalies, even after Malacañang’s signaling its reluctance to have the measure certified, the chamber’s leadership said Monday.

- By NEIL JAYSON SERVALLOS

Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson said he was puzzled by the sudden change in the Palace’s tone, as he stressed that the government must not waver in its commitment to fight corruption in infrastructure projects.

“I wonder why Malacañang’s enthusiasm is lost all of a sudden,” Lacson told reporters.

Former Senate president Franklin Drilon said President Marcos risks a sharp public backlash if he blocks the proposal for the establishment of IPC.

“Congress should create an independent fact-finding (body) with a sunset clause. People are angry at the massive corruption and will get angrier if the bill is vetoed. PBBM is playing with fire,” Drilon told reporters.