A coalition of reformist local chief executives has called on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to finally expose the politicians and contractors linked to corruption-tainted infrastructure projects, particularly flood control works that have repeatedly failed to protect communities.
In a strongly worded statement, the Mayors for Good Governance urged Malacañang and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to release full details of the controversial projects, including the names of those allegedly behind the anomalies.
“Flood control projects have existed for decades, but over the past years, corruption in these projects has become more alarming, pervasive, and systematic,” the group declared. “Those who have stolen public funds must 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.”
The manifesto was signed by Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, and Isabela City Mayor Sitti Hataman. The group has backing from more than 100 mayors across the country.
The mayors also pressed for the immediate disclosure of project records, such as Programs of Work, Unit Price Analyses, Bills of Quantities, and Feasibility Studies. “Transparency is no longer optional, but a duty we owe to every Filipino,” they said.
Marcos grows frustrated over projects
President Marcos earlier ordered a sweeping probe into the DPWH’s flood control initiatives, revealing that out of 2,409 accredited contractors, only 15 cornered a staggering ₱100 billion worth of projects—roughly 20 percent of the budget. While initially cautious, the President’s tone shifted after personally inspecting substandard works in Iloilo and Bulacan.
During his visit to a dike rehabilitation in Calumpit on August 15, Marcos fumed at the poor state of the structure completed just last year. “It cannot be like this! Unbelievable! This has been going on for years,” he said, demanding answers from the contractor St. Timothy Construction Corp.
Clash on probe leadership
Mayor Magalong said he is ready to submit documents linking lawmakers and contractors to the irregularities but insisted that an independent body should lead the probe. The Palace, however, rejected his suggestion, with press officer Claire Castro instead urging him to identify the alleged 67 House members accused of acting as shadow contractors.
The controversy continues to mount as local leaders complain that many flood projects were built without consultation or approval from their governments, leaving residents vulnerable and taxpayers shortchanged.
“Corruption must end now. The Filipino people deserve a government that protects and serves them, not one that endangers their lives and robs them of their future,” the mayors stressed.
