MANILA, Philippines – Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson has officially been reinstated as the chairman of the powerful Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, the body responsible for investigating corruption and malfeasance in government.

Lacson’s re-election was confirmed by his colleagues during the Senate’s plenary session on Tuesday, November 11.

The Call for a Comeback

Lacson, who also holds the position of Senate President Pro Tempore, had previously stepped down from the chairmanship in October. His resignation followed internal concerns raised by fellow senators regarding the trajectory of his ongoing investigation into alleged anomalous flood control projects.

However, the period following his resignation saw widespread calls for his return. Senate President Tito Sotto confirmed that both his fellow senators and the public have been vocal in demanding Lacson resume his post.

The call for his return was bipartisan, with several senators from both the majority and minority blocs voicing their support, notably including Senator JV Ejercito, who had previously considered leaving the majority bloc amidst the controversy.

Resuming the Anti-Corruption Probe

With Senator Lacson back at the helm of the anti-corruption panel, the committee is expected to swiftly resume its investigative duties.

The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee is scheduled to restart its hearings on the alleged flood control corruption case on Friday, November 14.

Lacson’s return is viewed as a strong signal of the Senate’s intent to pursue accountability and transparency within key government projects, particularly those related to infrastructure spending.