Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo “Ping” Lacson on Saturday reaffirmed that the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee will remain guided by evidence in investigating the alleged cash delivery scheme involving former military personnel, amid comments from the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) on the matter.

Lacson emphasized that respecting the INC’s perspective does not conflict with his evidence-led approach.

“As chairman of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, I haven’t changed my position about being led by evidence guided only by the prudent and logical way of treating any information that comes to my attention — evaluate and validate the credibility and reliability of both the source as well as the information itself before taking action,” he said.

The remarks came after INC spokesperson Edwil Zabala read a statement on television Friday, renewing calls for accountability in the flood control corruption scandal.

Zabala cited testimonies from 18 former military officials presented during a press conference on 24 February, suggesting a cash delivery scheme involving ranking officials.

Lacson noted two key issues that require further scrutiny including the alleged P805-billion in cash reportedly delivered, which appears mathematically inconsistent with admitted kickbacks; and the timing of the press conference, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of the EDSA-1 revolt and ongoing International Criminal Court (ICC) hearings related to the Duterte administration’s war on drugs.

“I have nothing but respect for the INC and will forever be grateful for all the times that they supported me, particularly for the three out of six election campaigns that I participated in, four of which I won,” Lacson said.

“Similarly, I respect their opinion regarding the 18 ex-military personnel who presented themselves at the Club Filipino last February 24. Let me emphasize that having a different opinion does not imply disrespect,” he added.

Lacson renewed his commitment to a methodical, evidence-based investigation, regardless of external opinions, while maintaining cordial relations with the religious organization that has historically supported him.