Mayors Call for Transparency in Flood Control Projects
Several anti-corruption mayors have urged President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to disclose the names of politicians and contractors involved in botched flood control projects across the Philippines. They emphasized the urgency of unveiling the truth behind these failed infrastructure efforts to ensure accountability and justice.
The group, known as Mayors for Good Governance, expressed their solidarity with the Filipino people in demanding transparency regarding widespread corruption allegations tied to flood control and other government projects. They highlighted the reported collusion between officials and favored contractors, which has worsened the state of these essential infrastructures.
Key Officials Lead the Call for Accountability
The statement was signed by notable local leaders, including Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, and Isabela City Mayor Sitti Hataman. These mayors have been at the forefront of exposing the involvement of some lawmakers in these compromised projects.
Community members noted that the group is expected to grow, as over 100 local chief executives nationwide have supported the initiative since its launch in August 2023.
Corruption in Flood Control Projects Worsens
“Flood control projects have existed for decades, but over the past years, corruption in these projects has become more alarming, pervasive, and systematic,” the mayors stated. They called for those who misappropriated public funds to face the full force of the law.
“Once proven guilty, politicians and bureaucrats must not only be removed from office but also prosecuted and jailed,” officials reported, emphasizing the need for justice.
Demand for Full Disclosure from Government Agencies
The mayors urged the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and other national agencies to immediately release all relevant project information. This includes Programs of Work, Detailed Unit Price Analyses, Bill of Quantities, Feasibility Studies, and critically, the names of contractors and politicians responsible for these multi-billion peso projects funded by taxpayers.
“Transparency is no longer optional, but a duty we owe to every Filipino,” local leaders noted.
Flood Control Projects Lack Coordination and Local Approval
Recently, many local chief executives have raised concerns that flood control projects were implemented without their consultation or coordination with experts. This has led to projects being misaligned with local development plans and, in some cases, executed without local government approval.
Magalong confirmed he would comply with Malacañang’s suggestion to submit documents related to the alleged collusion between lawmakers and contractors. However, he stressed the importance of a third-party-led investigation and expressed willingness to lead an independent committee for this probe.
Government Response and Investigation Efforts
Palace officials urged Magalong to identify the 67 House members he and Senator Panfilo Lacson implicated in profiting from overpriced or substandard flood control and infrastructure projects. This would enable authorities to pursue charges with sufficient evidence.
In his fourth State of the Nation Address, President Marcos ordered a thorough investigation of all flood control projects initiated under his administration. He admitted many projects failed to protect communities from prolonged flooding.
Subsequently, the President disclosed a list of 9,855 flood control projects implemented by the DPWH from July 2022 to May 2025 via the “Sumbong sa Pangulo” platform. However, he found it disturbing that 20 percent of the P545-billion budget was awarded to only 15 out of 2,409 accredited contractors.
While he named these contractors, Marcos refrained from accusing them of wrongdoing initially. But after witnessing the deteriorated condition of flood control projects in Iloilo City and Calumpit, Bulacan, his tone shifted.
President Marcos Expresses Frustration Over Sloppy Work
During an inspection on August 15 of a dike rehabilitation project in Calumpit, the President expressed visible irritation. He described the work as “irregular and sloppy,” demanding an explanation from St. Timothy Construction Corp., one of the top contractors involved.
The P96.5-million project, completed in February 2023, showed severe damage that compromised flood protection.
“It cannot be like this! Unbelievable! This has been going on for years,” Marcos said, voicing his disappointment and frustration.
For more news and updates on flood control projects, visit Filipinokami.com.
