Senators Expose Corruption in Flood Control Projects
Several senators have praised Sen. Panfilo Lacson for his boldness in unveiling what they called “harrowing and urgent” issues of large-scale corruption in the country’s flood control and infrastructure projects. The four-word keyphrase “flood control corruption issues” was central in discussions highlighting the grave situation within government agencies.
Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada aligned himself with Lacson’s detailed speech, emphasizing that “heads must roll” given the depth of alleged misconduct within the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). He stressed the critical need for accountability amid the flood control corruption issues plaguing the nation.
Leadership Accountability and Departmental Responsibility
When asked about the possible resignation of DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan, Estrada deferred to the President’s prerogative, saying, “It is up to the President to decide if he has to resign or not. It is still the prerogative of the President. I reserve my comment.”
He also noted that Secretary Bonoan might have been unaware of the anomalies, stating, “Maybe [the] Secretary also didn’t know about that, in fairness to Secretary Bonoan. I am not defending him. In fact, I asked a lot of questions thrown [at] him (Tuesday).” However, Estrada underlined the principle of command responsibility, adding, “Probably, he’s not monitoring that. But the problem is, it’s command responsibility. That is his responsibility as secretary of the department.”
Lacson’s Well-Researched Speech Draws Praise
Estrada commended Lacson’s privilege speech, calling it “well prepared and well researched.” He highlighted the senator’s thorough investigation into the irregularities in flood control projects, which exposed how funds were misallocated due to rampant greed.
According to Lacson, project funds are divided according to “greed” by both public officials and private entities, leaving minimal resources for actual implementation. This revelation has intensified calls for transparency and reform in managing flood control corruption issues.
Support from Fellow Senators and Calls for Justice
Sen. Risa Hontiveros expressed solidarity with Lacson’s fight against corruption, stating, “I am one with you in this fight.” She quoted a popular Facebook post: “The Philippines is not poor. We are plundered,” underscoring the systematic plundering that perpetuates poverty.
Hontiveros condemned the acceptance of corruption among officials, contrasting it with the harsh penalties ordinary Filipinos face for petty theft. She said, “If an ordinary Filipino steals, he will be immediately imprisoned, and his life could be ruined. But the officials’ stealing through corruption seems to be a part of life that is accepted by everyone. I cannot accept that.”
Sen. Erwin Tulfo also voiced full support for Lacson’s call to hold accountable those responsible for the flood control corruption issues. He expressed dismay that despite billions allocated for flood control, many Filipinos remain vulnerable to flooding.
Tulfo highlighted that the DPWH alone was allocated nearly P996.5 billion for flood control programs from the General Appropriations Act. This amount excludes budgets from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), and other agencies involved in flood management.
He described the situation as “nothing less than a grand robbery of our nation,” lamenting that the people are deprived of truth, transparency, and justice due to lack of accountability.
Ongoing Investigations and Demand for Answers
Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva thanked Lacson for his comprehensive investigation into the flood control corruption issues. He acknowledged reports of failed projects, including ghost projects in Bulacan, and confirmed that authorities are actively examining these cases.
Villanueva stressed the importance of providing clear answers to the public and holding those responsible for the persistent flooding accountable. He remarked, “It is important to give our countrymen answers and hold those involved in the problem of unli-baha (unlimited floods) accountable.”
For more news and updates on flood control corruption issues, visit Filipinokami.com.
