By Darryl John Esguerra
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday said the government must confront systemic corruption head-on, including irregularities he himself exposed in flood control projects, to regain the public’s trust and end what he called the “unscrupulous abuse of power and greed.”
Addressing the newly elected and appointed officers of the League of Vice Governors of the Philippines (LVGP) in Malacañang, Marcos said public outrage over corruption is justified, especially after revelations of ghost and substandard infrastructure projects.
“Our people are exhausted, they are disappointed, they are angry. And as I have said before, their rage is valid,” Marcos said.
“It is born from years of frustration at a government characterized by systemic dysfunction and unfulfilled promises.”
Marcos has created the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) to probe alleged anomalies in flood control and public works projects, including those already fully paid for but not built or constructed with substandard materials.
“Reforming our government is the only way we have to win back the trust of our people,” he said.
He challenged vice governors to be at the frontlines of reform in their provinces, stressing that leadership must reflect integrity and public service over political loyalties.
“Patunayan natin na wala sa kulay ng politika ang tunay na paglilingkod. Ito ay nasa puso, nasa konsensya, at higit sa lahat ay nasa gawa (Let us prove that true service is not in the color of politics. It is in the heart, in the conscience, and above all in action),” Marcos said.
He also warned that greed in government must be confronted decisively.
“Amidst the challenges affecting our institutions, we must remain firm, uncompromised, and united in fighting corruption,” Marcos said.
“The unscrupulous abuse of power and greed must come to an end.”
The LVGP officers who took their oath include its executive committee, regional directors and appointed officials. (PNA)
