Although it has yet to be supported with evidence, the World Bank (WB) report on the alleged bid-rigging in a road construction project is definitely something worth looking into, Sen. Richard Gordon said Monday.

Gordon said the WB, a source of financial assistance to developing countries around the world, has no reason to make baseless accusations against the Philippine government.

"Where there is smoke, there is fire. Especially when it's World Bank that said they're starting to smell something," Gordon told radio dzMM.

Instead of turning the tables on the WB's investigation process, Gordon said senators should strive to draft laws to help prevent more corruption in the country. He also scored the Office of the Ombudsman and the Department of Finance (DOF) for "not making any move" in probing involved contractors and public officials.

"The World Bank has a reason for saying such things. If you take a look at it, that (report) has been with the Ombudsman and the DOF (Department of Finance) for quite some time. How come they haven't made their move yet?" he said.

"The (World Bank) has given us a chance to fix this, but we're still not moving," he added.

Sen. Panfilo Lacson earlier said the WB bashing in the Senate hearing last week was orchestrated because of some "obvious circumstances."

Lacson said he became highly suspicious when he found out that First Gentleman Jose Miguel Arroyo, who was mentioned in the WB report for his alleged involvement in the collusive practices, came up with a statement which "dovetailed" with the Senate hearing’s conclusion.

Gordon agreed with Sen. Lacson, saying that the WB should not be attacked unnecessarily.

"I agree with Sen. Lacson. It seems that senators have been bashing the World Bank, when in fact this should be in aid of legislation," he said.

"I think we should be careful when speaking about the World Bank," he added.