Senator JV Ejercito has called for the arrest of high-profile individuals allegedly involved in irregular and “ghost” flood control projects, warning that collusion between public officials and private contractors is undermining accountability in the country.
“There’s a special place in hell for those who profit from fraudulent flood control projects,” Ejercito said in a press conference, stressing that powerful figures—not just small players—must face jail time to deter corruption. “Subukan niyong magpakulong ng talagang mga matataas na opisyal diyan para magtanda,” he added.
The Senate deputy majority leader also agreed when asked if Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manuel Bonoan should consider stepping down while the probe is ongoing, saying he believes Bonoan wants to leave a legacy but that corruption allegations reach officials “even at the Usec, Asec, and director levels.”
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. recently revealed that 20% of the ₱545 billion flood control budget was awarded to just 15 contractors—five of which have projects in nearly all regions. In his State of the Nation Address, Marcos vowed to hold those behind these anomalies accountable.
Meanwhile, Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero denied any role in flood control projects in his home province of Sorsogon or elsewhere, though he confirmed that Lawrence Lubiano, head of one of the flagged contractors, was a campaign contributor in 2022.
