Government Stresses Peace Amid Flood-Control Protests
MANILA — The government is determined to prevent protests like those seen in Indonesia from happening in the Philippines, especially amid ongoing investigations into suspicious flood-control projects. Officials emphasized that maintaining peace and due process is a priority as public scrutiny intensifies.
This resolve comes after activists from environmental and disaster survivor groups held a protest outside a construction company linked to the Discaya family, who face allegations related to questionable flood-prevention contracts.
Palace Press Officer Addresses Escalation Fears
During a briefing, Palace press officer Undersecretary Claire Castro was asked about concerns that protests in the Philippines might spiral into violent unrest similar to Indonesia’s recent turmoil. That Southeast Asian nation experienced deadly clashes, injuries, and looting triggered by allegations of government corruption and excessive lawmakers’ housing allowances.
In response, Castro stated in Filipino, “The President [Ferdinand Marcos Jr.] would not want such a thing to happen. As he himself said, we are following due process.” She added that the President has instructed government agencies and law enforcement to ensure such disturbances do not occur locally.
Protest Actions Symbolize Victims’ Struggles
Earlier, protesters marched to the gates of St. Gerrard Construction in Pasig City, throwing mud to represent the hardships endured by flood victims. They also spray-painted words like “magnanakaw” [thief] and “korap” [corrupt] on the company’s entrance, underscoring public anger toward alleged corruption.
Allegations Against Discaya Family Companies
The Discaya family is under investigation for allegedly controlling nine companies that have collectively received over P30 billion in government flood-control contracts within three years. This massive involvement has raised red flags among watchdogs and officials alike.
As a result, the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board revoked the licenses of these firms, signaling a crackdown on suspected irregularities in flood-control project awards.
Government’s Commitment to Transparency and Order
Community members and local leaders noted that the administration’s focus remains on transparency and adherence to legal processes. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to prevent any escalation of protests that could disrupt public order.
With the government’s clear stance, many hope that the Philippines can avoid the unrest experienced by neighboring countries while addressing citizens’ concerns over flood-control issues.
For more news and updates on flood-control protests, visit Filipinokami.com.
