Government Aims to Prevent Indonesia-Style Unrest
Malacañang has expressed firm resolve to avoid Indonesia-style unrest in the Philippines as investigations continue into irregularities involving flood-control projects. Officials emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and order amid public protests targeting alleged corruption.
During a recent briefing, Palace press officer Undersecretary Claire Castro addressed growing concerns that protests in the Philippines could escalate similarly to the violent demonstrations seen in Indonesia. She stressed that the government is committed to following due process and preventing chaos.
Context of Protests and Government Response
The unrest in Indonesia erupted after allegations of government corruption surfaced, including reports of lawmakers receiving excessive housing allowances in addition to their salaries. The resulting protests led to fatalities, injuries, and looting, alarming observers across the region.
In contrast, local leaders reported that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is directing relevant agencies and law enforcement to ensure that such disturbances do not occur in the Philippines. “The President [Ferdinand Marcos Jr.] would not want such a thing to happen. As he himself said, we are following due process,” Castro stated in Filipino.
She further added, “So, the President is also directing our concerned government agencies and law enforcement not to allow this to happen.” This highlights the administration’s focus on transparent investigations without compromising public safety.
Protests Target Construction Firm Amid Flood-Control Scrutiny
Earlier on the same day, members of environmental group Kalikasan and disaster survivors staged a protest outside St. Gerrard Construction in Pasig City. The firm, owned by the Discaya family, faces accusations of involvement in questionable flood-prevention projects.
Protesters symbolically threw mud at the company’s gate, representing the heavy burden endured by flood victims. They also spray-painted the words “magnanakaw” [thief] and “korap” [corrupt] on the premises, denouncing alleged corruption linked to the firm’s flood-control contracts.
Allegations and Government Actions Against Discaya Companies
Sources revealed that the Discayas are currently under investigation for owning nine companies that secured over P30 billion in government contracts related to flood-control projects within just three years. These deals have raised serious questions about transparency and accountability.
In response, the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board has revoked the licenses of these companies. This move signifies the government’s commitment to curbing corruption and ensuring that flood-control initiatives genuinely benefit affected communities.
Ensuring Stability While Pursuing Justice
Community members and officials alike recognize the delicate balance between addressing public grievances and maintaining peace. The government’s stance reflects a cautious approach that prioritizes lawful procedures while preventing unrest similar to Indonesia’s recent experience.
As investigations proceed, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, aiming to restore trust and deliver justice to flood victims without compromising national stability.
For more news and updates on flood-control projects, visit Filipinokami.com.
