Manila: Thousands of Filipinos took to the streets of Manila on Saturday to demand accountability over a massive corruption scandal involving flood-control projects. Protesters gathered at key locations, including a historic park and near a democracy monument along the EDSA highway, voicing anger over the alleged embezzlement of funds meant for essential infrastructure. The demonstrations remained largely peaceful, with organizers emphasizing nonviolent expressions of dissent.
The scandal involves more than 9,800 flood-control projects valued at over 545 billion pesos, approximately 9.5 billion U.S. dollars. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. first addressed the issue in his July State of the Nation address, announcing the creation of an independent commission to investigate the matter. Investigations have implicated multiple lawmakers, public officials, and businesspeople in the diversion of funds intended to protect communities from flooding.
Construction company owners Sarah and Pacifico Discaya testified that at least 17 legislators and officials demanded kickbacks in exchange for awarding contracts. Their testimony has already led to several high-profile resignations, including Senate President Francis Escudero and House Speaker Martin Romualdez. Authorities continue to pursue criminal charges and asset freezes against involved officials.
Public frustration has been intense, with many citizens expressing outrage over the misuse of funds crucial for flood mitigation. Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, a prominent Catholic Church leader, called for peaceful demonstrations to strengthen democracy and ensure justice.
President Marcos has acknowledged the public’s anger, pledging to pursue justice through ongoing investigations while urging protesters to maintain peace. Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro and military chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. reiterated the armed forces’ non-partisan stance and commitment to the constitutional chain of command, rejecting any calls for military defection amid the unrest.
The scale of the protests has attracted international attention, with the United States and Australian embassies issuing travel advisories urging citizens to avoid demonstration areas due to safety concerns.
As the investigations continue and public pressure grows, the Philippine government faces a critical moment in addressing corruption. The outcome of these proceedings is expected to have significant implications for the country’s political landscape and its commitment to transparency and accountability in governance.