Calls Mount for Independent Probe into Alleged “Ghost” Projects
Manila, Philippines – Following President Marcos Jr.’s condemnation of widespread corruption within goverment infrastructure projects, notably in flood control, a chorus of groups is demanding the formation of an independent fact-finding body too investigate the alleged misuse of public funds.
Labor groups, including nagkaisa and the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP), are advocating for a panel modeled after past truth commissions – such as those established to investigate the assassinations of Ninoy Aquino and the series of coup attempts, as well as extrajudicial killings. Nagkaisa Chairman Sonny Matula emphasized the need for citizen participation, stating that such a commission would ensure a thorough and impartial investigation.
The groups argue that the billions of pesos reportedly lost to fraudulent projects – often referred to as “ghost projects” – could have been utilized to stimulate economic growth, support small and medium enterprises, create jobs, and provide much-needed financial stability to social security systems like PhilHealth and the SSS. Matula specifically called for the regularization of the 832,000 contractual and job order workers currently lacking job security.
Beyond the formation of a commission, calls are also being made for parallel investigations by law enforcement agencies. matula urged the Department of Justice (DOJ), the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) to launch their own inquiries to prevent further misappropriation of funds.However, concerns have been raised regarding potential conflicts of interest. ML Party-list Rep. Leila de lima voiced objections to a proposed tri-committee investigation led by members of the House of representatives, citing the possibility of involvement by some lawmakers in the alleged anomalous projects. She argued that such a setup could damage the integrity of the institution and erode public trust.
TUCP General Secretary Arnel Dolendo expressed the outrage felt by Filipino workers, who struggle with low wages while their tax contributions are allegedly being stolen. He stressed the importance of an independent body with diverse depiction,including labor advocates,to identify those responsible for what he termed “economic sabotage.”
“This isn’t simply about corruption in flood control; it’s about rebuilding trust in government, safeguarding public funds, and ending the cycle where workers bear the brunt of the crimes committed by those in power,” Dolendo stated.
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