House Deputy Minority Leader Rep. Leila M. de Lima of the Mamamayang Liberal (ML) Partylist has called on Congress to urgently pass House Bill No. 4453, following explosive revelations at the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing that have intensified public scrutiny over what she described as the “biggest corruption scandal in our history.”

In a strongly worded statement, De Lima emphasized the need for decisive legislative action to uncover the truth and hold all involved parties accountable. “As the plot thickens, it becomes even more urgent and imperative to pass House Bill No. 4453,” she said. “Congress must act swiftly and decisively.”

The lawmaker criticized the limitations of the Interim Commission of Inquiry (ICI), saying it lacks the authority and resources to investigate the full scope of the alleged corruption. “Hindi sapat at hindi kakayanin ng ICI na imbestigahan ang napakalawak na katiwaliang ito gamit lang ang limitadong kapangyarihan nito,” she said, urging the Department of Justice and the Office of the Ombudsman to expedite the filing of strong cases.

De Lima also warned the public to remain vigilant amid the political fallout. “Manatili po tayong mulat,” she said, cautioning that behind every name revealed, there may be efforts to shield others. “Sa bawat inilalaglag, pwedeng may isinasalba at naghuhugas ng kamay. Habang may nagbibigay linaw, may pilit nagpapalabo at nanggugulo.”

House Bill No. 4453 seeks to establish a more empowered and independent body to investigate high-level corruption cases, a move De Lima says is essential to restoring public trust and ensuring justice.