As flash floods again submerged parts of Metro Manila and nearby areas this Friday, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. highlighted the critical link between government project integrity and public welfare. His statement follows the recent discovery of fraudulent and substandard flood control initiatives in Bulacan, which he believes could have prevented such recurrent flooding.
On Wednesday, the President conducted a surprise inspection of several flood control projects in Bulacan after receiving reports on the official Sumbong sa Pangulo website (sumbongsapangulo.ph). He uncovered what he called a “ghost” project in Purok 4, Barangay Piel, Baliuag, which the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) had reported as completed. He also found other projects with substandard construction.
In a media interview, President Marcos Jr. expressed his frustration, stating, “If all of these projects were properly executed and implemented, we and our people would have been spared from a lot of problems. It would have also improved irrigation and household access to a fresh water supply.”
The President has since ordered the blacklisting of involved contractors and directed the filing of graft and economic sabotage charges against those responsible for the falsification of these projects. The Sumbong sa Pangulo website was launched following his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA) to allow the public to report irregularities in government projects and hold accountable those who commit fraud, particularly in flood control initiatives.
The recent downpour on Friday led to class cancellations and severe traffic gridlock, underscoring the urgent need for effective flood control systems. The administration continues to emphasize that the proper implementation of such projects is crucial not only for mitigating flood risks but also for improving irrigation and ensuring a stable water supply for the populace.
