INC seeks update on government probe of flood control scam
The Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) has called out the government for the lack of a resolution to the flood control scam, even as it asked why no action has been taken on the supposed exposé of 18 individuals who claimed they delivered dozens of suitcases containing P805 billion in kickbacks to President Marcos and other lawmakers.
Edwil Zabala, INC spokesperson, raised the points in a statement, recalling that they even held a two-day rally in November to call for government transparency and accountability amid the corruption scandal.
“More than three months have passed, yet the nation has yet to see any resolution in the biggest act of stealing [from] into our nation’s coffers,” Zabala said. The statement was aired on the religious group’s official television network Net25 on Friday night.
He also questioned why authorities and investigators would go after those who have been “providing information,” although he did not name names.
At the same time, Zabala lamented how investigators of the flood control scam have been “looking at issues that can be used to sideline this problem.”
He also took note of a remark made by the current chair of the Senate blue ribbon committee, particularly, “We will go where the evidence leads us,” saying that Filipinos are still waiting for an update up to now.
Still waiting
The remark was made last month by the committee chair, Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson, who is leading an investigation into the controversy. After some senators were linked to the scam, Lacson said the ongoing probe must be fair and follow the evidence, and not be used to target or cover up for anyone.
Zabala, meanwhile, cited the recent joint affidavit executed by the 18 alleged bagmen.
“Now that there are many statements from those involved, including those who supposedly delivered the cash in luggage … Why are there no clear steps to take a closer look into this?” he asked. “What evidence are they waiting for to go after the mastermind of this anomaly?”
“The entire nation, along with millions of Filipinos across the world and even the international media, are watching, along with members of the Iglesia ni Cristo who continue to monitor these developments,” he said.
“Our call remains clear: reveal the truth, hold those involved accountable and let justice prevail to bring back the nation’s trust [to the government],” he added.
