Senate President Tito Sotto clarified that the Senate has no authority to prosecute or try individuals involved in alleged irregularities in flood control projects.
Sotto explained that the Senate’s hearings, particularly those led by the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, are meant to help craft legislation rather than to prosecute. He emphasized that the Senate does not possess “prosecutorial power.”
However, he noted that the chamber retains the authority to issue subpoenas during investigations to compel attendance or submission of documents when needed.
According to Sotto, the Senate’s role is to gather information, analyze data, and submit initial findings to the appropriate government agencies that have jurisdiction over possible legal action.
He said this process ensures that while the Senate fulfills its oversight and legislative functions, the responsibility of prosecution remains with agencies such as the Department of Justice and the Office of the Ombudsman.
Sotto’s clarification came amid growing public attention on the alleged anomalies surrounding the government’s flood control projects. The issue has drawn calls for accountability from lawmakers and watchdog groups, prompting the Senate inquiry.
He reaffirmed that the Senate’s objective is to strengthen laws and improve governance—not to act as a court of law.
