Corruption Kills: Health Workers PartyList Demands Accountability for Deadly Flood Projects

đŸ“·: Health Workers Partylist | FB

 

The Health Workers PartyList has joined a growing chorus of civil society groups, religious institutions, and advocacy organizations in condemning what it calls “massive corruption entrenched in the Philippine government,” particularly in relation to substandard and ghost flood control projects that have exacerbated public health risks across the country.

In a strongly worded statement, the PartyList denounced the misuse of public funds on infrastructure projects that have failed to mitigate flooding and instead worsened conditions in vulnerable communities.

“Substandard, ghost flood control projects have caused worse flooding that put the people at higher risk for diseases like leptospirosis,” the group said, warning that untreated cases of the disease can lead to systemic organ failure and death.

The PartyList’s statement comes amid a national reckoning over flood control anomalies, with over 100 groups calling for systemic reform and transparency in infrastructure spending.

Investigations by the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee have revealed widespread irregularities, including ghost projects and contractor monopolies, prompting subpoenas for Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) officials and private contractors.

Call to Action Against Misuse of Funds

The PartyList urged the public to remain vigilant and resist the continued misuse of taxpayer money.

“Let us not allow the people’s money to be wasted on corruption, pork barrel and unproductive expenses like debt servicing, militarization and confidential and intelligence funds,” the statement read.

The group reiterated its longstanding advocacy for increased investment in social services, especially public healthcare, which it says has been chronically underfunded despite rising health threats linked to climate disasters and poor infrastructure.

Public Health at Risk

Medical experts have echoed concerns about the health implications of flooding, particularly in urban poor communities where stagnant water and poor sanitation create breeding grounds for leptospirosis and other waterborne diseases.

The Department of Health has reported a spike in cases following recent typhoons, with hospitals in flood-prone areas nearing capacity.

Broader Movement for Reform

The PartyList’s statement aligns with broader demands for fiscal justice and good governance.

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) recently called for the return of stolen wealth and challenged youth to “make corruption shameful again”.

Meanwhile, business groups have demanded jail time for those implicated in the flood control controversy.

As investigations continue and public outrage grows, the Health Workers PartyList emphasized that the fight against corruption is also a fight for health, dignity, and the future of Filipino communities. (ROSE NOVENARIO)

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