Senators Applaud Marcos’ Bold Stand Against Corruption
MANILA, Philippines — Following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s fourth State of the Nation Address (Sona), several senators voiced their reactions to his speech. Most praised the president’s bold stand against corruption, especially regarding the country’s flood control programs.
Senate Minority Leader Vicente Sotto III expressed general satisfaction with the chief executive’s remarks. “Especially the fact that he gave a stern warning about corruption in the [Department of Public Works and Highways] flood control and other projects. I precisely like the part he talked about the preservation of the National Expenditure Program. That is what we will be doing in the Senate. Humanda yun mga mahilig sa insertion,” Sotto said.
Marcos’ Anti-Corruption Message Resonates
Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva shared similar views, commending Marcos for addressing the issues surrounding flood control. However, he expressed disappointment that the president did not discuss the growing problem of online gambling.
“We reiterate our call for a total ban on online gambling because it wreaks havoc on the lives of our people. It destroys families, it traps people in addiction, and it offers no real value to nation-building,” Villanueva emphasized.
Senator Lacson Applauds Tough Stance
Meanwhile, Senator Panfilo Lacson also lauded the president’s anti-corruption stance in flood control projects. Lacson highlighted his favorite quote from the Sona—where Marcos told those involved in corruption to feel ashamed of their actions.
“I clapped the loudest and the longest when he mentioned about the graft-ridden flood control projects, even calling for an accounting of the same while holding accountable those responsible, whether government officials or private contractors,” Lacson said in a statement.
He added, “I clapped even louder when the President announced that he will return the 2026 budget bill passed by Congress not aligned with the National Expenditure Program. That would make my scrutiny of the General Appropriations Bill easier with less insertions and realignments.”
Lacson recently questioned the persistent rise in floodwaters despite nearly P2 trillion allocated to flood management programs since 2011. He also noted that up to half of these funds allotted to DPWH may have been lost to corruption, according to local leaders and sources.
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