Manila, June 8 -- The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee on Monday moved to place its flood control inquiry back under formal institutional channels, opening a public consultation and organizational meeting following questions over the validity of a June 4 proceeding in which former bodyguards of fugitive lawmaker Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Zaldy Co surfaced with fresh allegations.

Sen. Erwin Tulfo, who presided over the meeting, said the panel would seek updates from executive agencies while also addressing the circumstances surrounding the June 4 "press conference" held at the Senate session hall.

Tulfo said the activity was presented to the public as a Blue Ribbon proceeding despite having no authorization from the duly recognized committe...