CBCP warns Senate leadership change could fuel cover-up suspicions

The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) warned that another Senate leadership change amid ongoing investigations into flood control projects would heighten public suspicion of a cover-up.

CBCP President Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David stated that Filipinos are closely watching, and any leadership shakeup or redirection of probes would fuel suspicions.

The CBCP urged public officials to maintain the integrity of the investigations into alleged anomalies in flood control projects, which reportedly involve politicians and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) officials.

Allegations include lawmakers and DPWH officials receiving kickbacks and congressional insertions.

The CBCP strongly opposes any attempt to pre-empt or derail the investigation through backroom deals, leadership takeovers, or selective justice.

This statement follows circulating talks of a coup attempt against Senate President Vicente "Tito" Sotto III.

Separately, the Senate President Pro Tempore announced his relinquishment of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee chairmanship, though he vowed to continue his fight against corruption.