Rep. Ridon asks Baguio mayor for proof on lawmaker kickback claims

Bicol Saro party-list Rep. Terry Ridon, who also chairs the House Committee on Public Accounts, urged Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong to present evidence of his claim that lawmakers receive 30 to 40 percent kickbacks from flood control and infrastructure projects.

Ridon emphasized the seriousness of the allegations and requested concrete proof from Magalong to aid the committee's probe into potential corruption.

Magalong previously alleged in an interview that lawmakers influence the appointment of DPWH engineers, facilitating collusion among legislators, engineering officials, and contractors.

Ridon stated that the House panel will invite Magalong to a review of government infrastructure projects to look into ghost projects, bloated contracts, underspending, and abuse of discretion in fund realignment and procurement.

He added that contractors for the projects are also ultimately involved in potential corruption.