Lacson, Cayetano spar over flood projects as Hernandez faces charges

MANILA — Senators Panfilo Lacson and Alan Peter Cayetano continued their escalating confrontation on Wednesday over allegations surrounding questionable flood-control projects, with Lacson challenging his colleague's credibility and raising counter-allegations about potential improper influence.

Cayetano had previously voiced concerns about Lacson's alleged influence over Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon, prompting the former to question the senator's motives and cast doubt on his claims. The back-and-forth marked the latest chapter in what has become an increasingly contentious legislative dispute over infrastructure spending and project accountability.

Meanwhile, Brice Hernandez, a former Department of Public Works and Highways official, along with six others, moved forward in legal proceedings related to the flood-control project allegations. The development signals intensifying scrutiny into how billions in public funds designated for critical infrastructure may have been utilized.

The disputes come amid renewed focus on government spending transparency and the management of critical disaster-mitigation infrastructure. Observers said the public clash between the two senators underscores growing tensions within the Senate over accountability mechanisms and oversight of large public works projects.