Marcos Orders Halt to Flood Control Funds, Launches Investigation into Decades of Alleged Corruption
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered a halt to the disbursement of funds for flood control projects and announced the formation of an independant commission to investigate allegations of widespread corruption within the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).The move comes amid a growing investigation into irregularities surrounding infrastructure projects spanning the last 21 years, dating back to 2003.
Marcos stated that the allegations reveal a deeply entrenched system of corruption, “institutionalized” over two decades. He emphasized that the investigation will be thorough and will spare no one, including political allies. “The truth has to come out,” he affirmed, adding that the focus will be on identifying and removing the “big fish” – influential individuals – responsible for the alleged irregularities. “If you don’t remove the players, you won’t be able to dismantle the system,” he explained.
Concurrently, the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, now under the chairmanship of Senator Panfilo lacson following a recent leadership change, is preparing a “no-nonsense” and “receipt-based” investigation into the claims made by contractors Curlee and Sarah Discaya, who have alleged the involvement of lawmakers and officials in corrupt practices. lacson intends to verify all claims with supporting documentation, stating he will not rely solely on testimonies. He plans to examine ledgers and vouchers detailing alleged payments to DPWH officials and legislators, and will be vigilant against potentially “selective” testimonies.
The Senate investigation will build upon the work of the previous committee hearings on flood control projects. Lacson clarified that the Blue Ribbon Committee’s work, conducted in aid of legislation, will not conflict with the independent commission formed by Malacañang. He intends to share any evidence gathered during the Senate probe with the commission to support potential prosecutions. He has already shared evidence from his first privilege speech with DPWH Secretary Vince dizon.
The President’s decision and the Senate’s investigation signal a commitment to addressing long-standing concerns about corruption within the DPWH and ensuring accountability in the use of public funds for infrastructure projects.