Bayan Muna Chairperson Neri Colmenares has called for accountability from the Marcos Jr government and its immediate predecessors over the ineffective flood control programs that have exacerbated the devastation caused by recent floods, leaving hundreds of thousands of Filipinos vulnerable.
“Filipinos demand accountability from the Marcos Jr government as well as immediate predecessors for the failed flood control programs that have left communities devastated by floods,, like the one we are experiencing now with Typhoon Enteng” Colmenares stated. “We feel frustrated – outraged – that rampant corruption has siphoned off funds meant for critical infrastructure, turning what should have been a life-saving initiative into a massive tragic failure.”
Despite the P1.2 trillion budget allocations for flood control since 2009, Colmenares highlighted the dismal reality on the ground. “Entire communities are submerged under water, homes are destroyed, livelihoods are lost, and lives are endangered: all because of the Marcos Jr government’s negligence and misuse of public funds. The floods we are witnessing today are not just a result of natural calamities but of man-made corruption that has eroded the very systems meant to protect us.”
Colmenares criticized the government’s longstanding promises of robust flood control measures, which have repeatedly resulted in delayed, poorly executed, or entirely unimplemented projects. “Investigations have revealed that funds intended for these projects were instead pocketed by corrupt officials, leaving our cities and towns defenseless against flash floods and dam overflows.”
He emphasized the catastrophic consequences of such corruption: “Entire families are displaced, schools are forced to close, businesses are interrupted, and the health risks of waterborne diseases escalate. This is not just a natural disaster—it is a disaster rooted in greed, incompetence, and a blatant disregard for human life!”
Bayan Muna demands full transparency and accountability, urging the Marcos Jr government and agencies like the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to release detailed reports on the utilization of funds for flood control programs. Those guilty of misusing public funds must face prosecution.
In addition, Colmenares called for the urgent implementation of effective flood control projects. “It is appalling how these events keep taking place regularly because the government continues to fail its mandate to build intelligent, sustainable, and efficient flood control systems. All pending and delayed flood control projects must be fast-tracked and completed without further delay.”
Finally, he demanded compensation and immediate support for affected communities, stressing the need for immediate assistance, emergency fund allocation, and rebuilding efforts in flood-stricken areas.
“We refuse to accept that floods are an inevitable part of the lives of Filipinos. These floods are preventable disasters, and it is time the government takes responsibility for its role in this crisis. We will not remain silent while our communities suffer. It is time for the government to act with integrity, transparency, and urgency to prevent further harm and restore the trust of the people. Filipinos deserve better. We demand action now,” Colmenares concluded.#
