These Flood Control Projects
By Farah G. Decano
PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. recently took a firm public stance against allegedly anomalous flood control projects – a move interpreted as a calculated maneuver. This action has raised questions about whether it is a strategic attempt to divert public attention from the failed impeachment attempt against Vice President Sara Duterte and to consolidate power within the administration.
Marcos’s public display of anger could be a way to reassert his authority over political allies, especially those whose loyalty may be wavering. By exposing potential anomalies, he may be sending a clear message: that he, as President, has access to sensitive information and is willing to use it to ensure his allies remain in line.
This strategy could also serve as a warning to political opponents to curb their criticisms or risk having their own wrongdoings exposed.
This approach is reminiscent of a tactic used by former President Rodrigo Duterte, who also warned legislators at the beginning of his term that he had “the goods” on them. This resulted in a period of relative submission from many lawmakers. The most notable example was the trumped-up charges against then Senator Leila de Lima. The latter has been vindicated after all the cases filed by the Duterte camp have been dismissed.
However, this tactic carries significant risks for the current administration. It could antagonize allies in the House of Representatives, some of whom may be linked to the very projects being
scrutinized. Political opponents may also use this opportunity to further attack the administration’s key figures in Congress, potentially weakening the president’s political hold. The effectiveness of this strategy and its long-term consequences remain to be seen.
We hope that in the end, this strategy will be a win for the Filipinos in their battle against corruption.
If BBM will be able to eliminate at least 80 percent of these illegal fund-draining activities, coupled with payment of the long overdue Marcos estate taxes, then perhaps he will be judged by history as the better Marcos.
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In a separate but related development, former Dagupan City Vice Mayor Alvin Fernandez has publicly raised concerns about a series of flood control projects in the city. Fernandez posted on Facebook about projects from 2020 to 2023 that reportedly cost nearly a billion pesos and tagged Councilor Joey Tamayo in his post, most likely to urge a legislative inquiry.
This public challenge puts pressure on the local government to address concerns about transparency and accountability. The public is now demanding answers to key questions:
Is there truth to the projects mentioned by the former Vice Mayor? Have they been funded? If so, what is their current status? Have they been fully implemented? What is the present condition of these projects? Are they effective? Were the constituencies in the various barangays consulted about these projects?
Residents and stakeholders are calling on Councilor Tamayo and the rest of the City Council to take up this challenge. As public servants and legislators, the Councilors have a responsibility to investigate these matters and provide clarity to their constituents.
This situation presents an opportunity for the Council to demonstrate their commitment to good governance beyond simply distributing aid. The public is looking for their leaders to prove their integrity and address difficult issues head-on.
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