Call for Transparency in House Lawmakers Corruption Claims
Manila 2nd District Rep. Rolando Valeriano urged those accusing House lawmakers of corruption schemes to name names instead of making vague allegations. Speaking during an ambush interview at the Batasang Pambansa complex, Valeriano emphasized the importance of clarity and accountability amid growing concerns about flood control projects.
He echoed Leyte 4th District Rep. Richard Gomez’s call for a “clean mayor” to identify specific House members linked to these issues, while focusing on resolving problems within their own jurisdictions first. This call for transparency is gaining attention as accusations swirl around lawmakers’ involvement in questionable infrastructure dealings.
Allegations Point to Local Officials and Lawmakers
Although Gomez did not directly name the mayor involved, community members noted that only Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong has publicly accused lawmakers of corruption related to infrastructure projects and aid distribution in recent months. Valeriano believes Gomez’s remarks were alluding to Magalong, who has been vocal in his criticisms of the House even before flood control concerns surfaced.
“That’s correct. Actually, the issue of flood control has not been discussed yet but I have already heard Mayor Magalong’s criticisms, so I stand with the statement of Cong. Richard Gomez, that’s correct. If there are many projects released by their lawmaker […] since he is aware of who they are, start naming names,” Valeriano said.
He added, “Because there are 300-plus lawmakers, but we are all dragged into the issue […] I haven’t read that, but I think it was Mayor Magalong who was very vocal about it.” Officials reported that accusations should be addressed through proper channels to ensure fairness and resolution.
Proper Forums and Naming Names Essential to Resolve Issues
Valeriano stressed the need for accusers to come forward openly if they claim to be clean. “All of these claims are general, so to all those making accusations, bring it to whatever proper forum that you want. Second, name names also, because many individuals are dragged into the issue. And I still believe, many people in the government, especially here in Congress are good,” he said.
Meanwhile, Gomez posted on social media that the “clean mayor”’s allegations against the House stem not from corruption but from a rivalry with the city’s congressman, who is bringing in more projects. Gomez urged the mayor to focus on local problems such as air quality, public transport, waste disposal, and urban planning safety rather than dragging everyone into the dispute.
Mayor Magalong’s Criticisms and Contract Kickbacks
Magalong previously told community members that lawmakers influence the appointment of district or regional engineers at the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). This, he said, facilitates collusion among lawmakers, engineering officials, and contractors involved in corrupt activities.
According to Magalong, contractors have revealed that lawmakers receive between 30 to 40 percent of contract prices. When asked about Gomez’s claims, the Baguio mayor responded cryptically, stating, “No lantern can light the eyes that choose the dark; Debate is wasted where truth leaves no mark.”
Other local leaders, including House committee chairperson Rep. Terry Ridon, have suggested inviting Magalong to clarify these allegations, especially as his panel reviews infrastructure programs and flood control projects.
Flood Control Project Issues Spark National Concern
Flood control projects have come under scrutiny following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s strong condemnation of officials and contractors accused of kickbacks during his fourth State of the Nation Address. Marcos expressed shame over those involved in corrupt practices affecting flood control initiatives.
Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson warned that nearly half of the country’s almost P2 trillion allocated for flood control projects since 2011 may have been lost, prompting calls for thorough reviews. Subsequently, President Marcos released a list of contractors, sparking investigations linking some to lawmakers and politicians.
These developments highlight the urgent need for transparency and accountability among House lawmakers and local officials alike. Addressing corruption claims with clear evidence and proper procedures remains crucial to restoring public trust.
For more news and updates on House lawmakers corruption claims, visit Filipinokami.com.
