House Deputy Minority Leader and ACT Teachers Partylist Rep. France Castro has issued a challenge to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to comply with the Supreme Court’s decision and relinquish control over the Paoay Complex in Ilocos Norte, which has been declared ill-gotten wealth.
“The Supreme Court has made it clear that this property, along with other assets acquired through unlawful means, must be returned to the Filipino people,” Rep. Castro asserted. “This is a crucial opportunity for President Marcos Jr. to demonstrate his commitment to justice and transparency by adhering to the court’s ruling.”
The Supreme Court’s unanimous decision, authored by Senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen, declared the 1978 lease contract between Ferdinand Marcos Sr. and the Philippine Tourism Authority as unconstitutional. The contract allowed the late dictator to lease the land for a nominal fee of P1 per year, despite not owning it, with the government bearing the development costs.
Rep. Castro emphasized the importance of rectifying historical injustices and addressing the issue of ill-gotten wealth linked to the Marcos family. “This is not just about one property; it’s about upholding justice and ensuring that public assets are safeguarded for the benefit of all Filipinos,” she said.
The Supreme Court further highlighted irregularities in free patents obtained by the Marcos family since 2000, which could be reversed by the government with presidential approval. “President Marcos Jr. faces a pivotal decision that will test his presidency’s integrity. He must choose to act in the interest of the nation,” Castro urged.
As the nation awaits President Marcos Jr.’s response, Rep. Castro and the ACT Teachers Partylist remain steadfast in their advocacy for accountability and justice. “The Filipino people deserve to see their resources returned and utilized for public good,” she concluded.#
