House committee requires conflict of interest declarations

The House Infrastructure Committee, through its three subpanels, will require members to submit sworn statements declaring any conflict of interest in the ongoing investigation of flood control projects.

This measure, proposed by Rep. Chel Diokno and adopted by the joint committee, aims to address concerns about lawmakers having ties to government contractors involved in potentially anomalous projects.

Lawmakers will have five working days to submit their disclosures.

Rep. Terry Ridon, co-chair of the committee, stated that the panel will initially rely on the lawmakers' word, but lying on the notarized statements could lead to perjury charges.

The effectiveness of these disclosures, however, may depend on whether the House committee will verify them or take action on any potential conflicts.