Manila: The House of Representatives is launching a full and transparent investigation into alleged corruption, waste, and substandard performance in the government's flood control program -- declaring that no official, agency, or contractor will be spared if found accountable. The move directly responds to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s strong directive that 'even a whiff of corruption or abuse of power must not be ignored.'

According to Philippines News Agency, through House Resolution No. 145, three House committees -- Public Accounts, Public Works and Highways, and Good Government and Public Accountability -- are now jointly investigating the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and its contractors over billions of pesos in flood control projects, some of which have been flagged as either non-existent, defective, or grossly overpriced.

Initial reports show over PHP500 billion was allocated since 2022, yet communities in Metro Manila and across the country remain submerged after every heavy rain. In Malabon and Navotas, a floodgate damaged in 2024 still remains unrepaired to this day -- despite being listed as 'completed.'

Deputy Speaker Paolo Ortega stated that when people's lives are at stake, there should be no excuse and no cronyism. He emphasized that every peso lost to corruption is a life at risk when floods hit, and that this investigation is about justice, not politics. He stressed the need for clear answers for the public.

Deputy Speaker Jay Khonghun assured the public that the investigation will follow evidence and due process, emphasizing that it is neither a witch hunt nor a stunt. He stated that those entrusted with public funds, whether in government or the private sector, must explain their actions and face consequences if wrongdoing is proven.

The investigation also aims to lay the foundation for legislative reforms to prevent future misuse of infrastructure funds. Lawmakers are considering proposals that include enhanced procurement safeguards, better project tracking systems, and real-time transparency tools.

They emphasized that the investigation must restore public trust and reaffirm that in a Bagong Pilipinas, accountability is non-negotiable. Khonghun concluded that there will be no sacred cows, no untouchables, and when there's a failure, somebody should be liable.