Manila, Jan. 12 -- The Office of the Ombudsman on Monday called the reports that three former Department of Public Works and Highway (DPWH) engineers were recanting their testimonies linking lawmakers to the flood control project anomalies as mere "noise."

"Seems like noise to us. We will only rely on sworn statements," Assistant Ombudsman and spokesperson Mico Clavano told reporters when sought for comment.

"Besides, that would hurt their admission into witness protection," he added.

Reports earlier said former DPWH Bulacan engineering district officials Henry Alcantara, Brice Hernandez and Jaypee Mendoza are considering recanting their previous statement on the flood control mess linking lawmakers.

In a news release Sunday, Sen. Pan...