MANILA, Philippines — Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto said he was willing to testify before the Senate should he be invited to its ongoing investigation into alleged anomalies in flood control projects involving his former mayoral rival Cezarah Discaya., This news data comes from:http://www.redcanaco.com

Sotto made the statement during an ambush interview with reporters on Wednesday at the inspection of the Ortigas Subway station. When asked if he would attend if summoned, the mayor replied: "Anyone, really. It's not about if I want to or not. If they summon me, I am required to."

Sotto willing to testify in Senate probe of flood control anomalies if summoned

The mayor stressed the importance of accountability, stating that the issue of alleged corruption should not be forgotten.

"What is important here is for those who need to be held accountable, to be held accountable. Whether they're government officials, contractors, suppliers, politicians, or career officials, it's important that someone is held accountable," Sotto said. "It is not possible that after a few months, the issue will just go silent, then we will all forget."

Sotto confirmed that the Pasig local government was conducting its own parallel investigation and has been assisting national government agencies with their inquiries. He revealed that a national government agency recently requested and received documents from the city, including business permits of contractors.

The mayor also disclosed that he has submitted a Freedom of Information (FOI) request to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for documents related to flood control projects within Pasig's jurisdiction.

When asked for his comment on the Senate hearings, Sotto said he had no additional remarks and would "let the senators do their job." However, he expressed hope that the investigations would lead to the filing of appropriate cases.

Sotto willing to testify in Senate probe of flood control anomalies if summoned

"The good thing about the inquiries in aid of legislation... at least the spotlight is on them. The spotlight is on these contractors, DPWH if needed," he said. "But really what's important is that cases are filed whether with the Ombudsman or appropriate courts."

On the matter of 12 luxury vehicles recently seized by the Bureau of Customs, reportedly linked to the contractors, Sotto said he would leave the matter to the Customs. He emphasized that the critical issue was to prevent the recurrence of "corrupt practices" in infrastructure projects.

"The important thing is that these infrastructure projects do not happen again, because what is happening to us is a recurring cycle," Sotto said. "The practices that we all know need to stop. We in [the] government know this is happening. You in the media know this is happening. Even the ordinary citizens are aware, they already know. We are all familiar with the stories of SOP, 'porsyentuhan,' hatian,' we all know them, this needs [to be] stopped.”