Manila, July 29 -- Senators on Monday lauded President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s call for an audit of flood control programs and for accountability over alleged misuse of public funds, saying the strong pronouncement during his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA) was long overdue and must be followed by decisive action.

Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada praised Marcos for his direct message to those involved in anomalous projects.

"Sinabi niya doon sa mga nangwawalanghiya sa pondo ng kaban ng bayan, lalo na sa mga kasabwat sa flood control projects (He called out those who have shamelessly abused public funds, especially those involved in flood control projects)," Estrada said.

"Malinaw ang mensahe niya na dapat mana...