President Marcos Considers Economic Sabotage Charges
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. revealed on Wednesday that he is seriously considering filing economic sabotage charges against individuals involved in fraudulent flood-control projects across the country. The president’s remarks came after his inspection of a stalled flood-control initiative, highlighting concerns about corruption and project delays.
During a visit to Purok 4, Barangay Piel in Baliuag, Bulacan, Marcos examined the site of a 220-meter reinforced concrete river wall project. Scheduled to start last February, the project remains unfinished with no visible progress to date. This flood-control project, valued at P55.7 million, was awarded to Syms Construction Trading.
Fraudulent Flood-Control Projects Under Scrutiny
“It’s very clear that the project isn’t completed. So immediately, that’s falsification—and that alone is already a very serious violation,” the president said. Officials reported that the Commission on Audit is currently conducting a fraud audit on flood-control projects worth billions, implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways in Bulacan.
Marcos described the incomplete river wall project in Barangay Piel as a “perfect example of abuse.” He emphasized that since launching the complaint website sumbongsapangulo.ph, many citizens have reported similar cases of contractor misconduct.
Public Outcry and Presidential Frustration
Visibly frustrated, the president expressed his anger over the situation. “Well, more than disappointed, I’m getting very angry,” he said, underscoring the gravity of the issue. Community members noted that if all flood-control projects had been properly executed, many problems faced by residents could have been prevented.
Marcos further explained that successful project implementation would have improved irrigation systems, water supply, and access to fresh water for households. The ongoing fraud undermines these essential public services, affecting countless Filipinos.
Contractor Response and Next Steps
Attempts to reach Syms Construction Trading for comment have not yielded any response as of this report. Local leaders highlighted the urgent need for accountability and stronger oversight to prevent further abuse in public works projects.
“For the big ones, I’m thinking very hard about charging them with economic sabotage,” Marcos stated, signaling a firm stance against corruption that hampers national development.
For more news and updates on flood-control projects and government accountability, visit Filipinokami.com.
