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CMMA Confers Posthumous Honors On Fallen Veteran Journo, Johnny Dayang

Maribel Asis J.
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CMMA Confers Posthumous Honors On Fallen Veteran Journo, Johnny Dayang

THE CATHOLIC MASS Media Awards (CMMA) will posthumously honor the late Juan P. “Johnny” Dayang, veteran journalist, publisher, and advocate for ethical media, with the 2024 CMMA Serviam Award at the rites to be held at the Citystate Tower Hotel on Wednesday, November 19.

Established in memory of CMMA founder Jaime L. Cardinal Sin, the award recognizes media professionals whose lives reflect Christian service, integrity, and faith-inspired communication.

Dayang, who passed away on April 29, 2025, served as CMMA Board Secretary, president of the Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PAPI), president of the Manila Overseas Press Club, and founding president of the Federation of Provincial Press Clubs of the Philippines. He also served as a UNESCO commissioner, Red Cross governor, and former mayor of Kalibo.

He played a key role in establishing the CMMA, including introducing Cardinal Jaime L. Sin to Ambassador Antonio Cabangon Chua, helping bring the awards to life, a vision he nurtured until his final days.

“Our father was a staunch advocate of the Catholic Mass Media Awards,” said Juan E. Dayang, Jr., senior diplomat at the Philippine Embassy in Ankara, Turkiye. “It was his dream to see the CMMA thrive. Although I cannot be there in person, I am proud that his daughters will receive this award on behalf of our family, honoring a legacy that touched countless lives.”

Dayang was tragically killed at his home in Kalibo, Aklan, on April 29, 2025. His passing drew condemnation from national and international organizations. 

‘Established in memory of CMMA founder Jaime L. Cardinal Sin, the award recognizes media professionals whose lives reflect Christian service, integrity, and faith-inspired communication.’

UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay said, “I condemn the killing of Juan Dayang and call for a transparent and thorough investigation to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice. Impunity for such crimes must not be tolerated as it only emboldens those who seek to silence journalists and prevent them from fulfilling their crucial role of informing the public.”

AWARDING RITES
The 47th Catholic Mass Media Awards will present the Serviam Award posthumously to Juan “Johnny” Dayang at the Citystate Tower Hotel, 1315 A. Mabini Street, Ermita, Manila, Wednesday, November 19, at 5:00 PM.

The award will be received by his daughters, Bernadette Dayang and Geraldine E. Dayang-Fernando. Dayang Jr., who is currently a senior diplomat at the Philippine Embassy in Turkey, is unable to attend.

“This award honors our father’s life and work,” said Bernadette and Geraldine Dayang. “He lived by the principles of service, faith, and truth. We are proud to continue his legacy.”

Recto As ES Is Good For Marcos, But Not For Us

Rose de la Cruz
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Recto As ES Is Good For Marcos, But Not For Us

THE APPOINTMENT OF Ralph Recto as the little president, to replace Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin is a good choice that would serve the best interest of President Marcos, but not us citizens of the Republic as Recto is behind all those oppressive taxes that were forced upon us, and more could be forthcoming with him beside the president.

As congressman, Recto was behind the value added tax at the time of Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, and that of the transfer of P69 billion PhilHealth savings to the national treasury (which was bad for us who contributed to that fund as a surety for our health concerns). He is also behind the framework for PEZA (Philippine Economic Zone Authority) that actually is being romanticized as an economic propeller when in reality most export zones are white elephants.

It was also Recto who worked to strengthen ecozone and lowering barriers for foreign retailers to operate in the Philippines and in the process killed our own industries and small retailers, while providing tax incentives (at our expense) to multinational companies to establish regional headquarters in the Philippines.

As if those are not enough, Recto authored the Comprehensive Tax Reform law, which provided broader tax reforms by including excise taxes and VAT bases.

As senator (2001-2007 and again 2010 to 2022), he was known for sponsoring major tax, health, education and economic reforms, including EVAT in his first term that contributed to his 2007 reelection loss.  

RALPH RECTO AS SENATOR

Recto served multiple terms in the Senate, chairing the Ways and Means Committee for several congresses. He was known for sponsoring major tax, health, education, and economic reforms, including some controversial ones like the Expanded Value-Added Tax (EVAT) Law in his first term, which contributed to his 2007 reelection loss.

In the senate, he was often called the Senate’s “resident numbers genius” for his expertise in fiscal and tax legislation. Many of his measures aimed at revenue generation, social welfare expansion, and business ease, though some (like TRAIN and EVAT) faced public criticism for increasing certain taxes.

Even as Finance Secretary of Marcos until Nov. 17, he drew much criticism for his vehement support to taxing (not banning) POGOs, taxing VAPE and other artificial sweeteners, and his vehement push for the unpopular sovereign fund, with capital coming from pension funds of the people, which to this day has yet to prove its benefit to the citizenry.

His legislative record remains one of the most prolific in recent Philippine history, particularly in economic and tax policy.

BLOATED SELF-CONFIDENCE

Remember that just recently, when he got piqued over widespread criticisms over his pronouncements: “do not teach me how to do my work.” This snobbishness is what would prevail now at the Palace.

By and large, Recto is an aristocrat– preferring to project an image of a technocrat than a down-to-earth leader– and such image can worsen with him now occupying the most enviable post with its proximity and influence upon the President. 

He may be a good economist (a student of former President Arroyo) and one of the best politicians (who can wield influence and make lawmakers not on the side of Marcos to toe the line) but he has no heart for the common man. So let us expect harder days ahead with Recto behind the curtains of Malacanang. 

Bersamin Out, Recto Is New Executive Secretary

Rose de la Cruz
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Bersamin Out, Recto Is New Executive Secretary

THE PURGE ISN’T over, at least not until after the administration gets rid of its “extra baggage.”

However, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin doesn’t seem inclined on waiting for him to be fired as he resigned from the post he held for the last three years.

In a news briefing, no less than Palace Press Officer Claire Castro admitted that Bersamin has resigned — and has been replaced by Finance Secretary Ralph Recto.

Castro also announced the resignation of Amenah Pangandaman as Secretary of the Department of Budget and Management. Taking over her post is Budget Undersecretary Rolando Toledo as officer-in-charge.

With Recto’s new designation, Secretary Frederick Go, the Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs, takes over as Finance Secretary.

FLOOD CONTROL SCANDAL

According to Castro, Bersamin and Pangandaman “voluntarily resigned” after being dragged into the flood control scandal.

“President Marcos accepts the resignation of Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin and Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman,” Castro told Palace reporters.

Castro said both officials voluntarily stepped down out of “delicadeza,” even as she claimed that their resignation will also allow the administration to investigate the issue properly.

“To ensure continuity and enforce the administration’s governance agenda, President Marcos has appointed Department of Finance Secretary Ralph Recto as the new executive secretary,” she said.  

“These leadership changes reinforce the President’s commitment to strengthening institutions, improving coordination across government, and keeping the administration focused on delivering stability, opportunity, and security to Filipino families,” Castro said.

“The Office of the President assures the public that all agencies will continue to operate without interruption and with the same commitment to effective governance and public service.” 

NOT ENTIRELY SURPRISING

Talks on Bersamin’s exit have been lingering over the past three weeks and that he would be replaced by Recto. The Finance Secretary then, however, denied rumors he was poised to become the next executive secretary.

In published news reports, Recto claimed there had been no offer for him to assume the post. He also said he was unaware of any potential revamp in the Cabinet.

“There is no offer. There’s nothing to accept,” he told members of the media when asked if he would take the position should an offer arise. “I remain as DOF… I’m here as Secretary of DOF.” 

Interestingly, Bersamin also dispelled rumors that he would quit his post or be replaced by the President.

INC’S BARGAINING CHIP?

Speculation about Bersamin’s supposed exit coincided with the Iglesia ni Cristo’s three-day rally calling for accountability amid alleged corruption in government projects.

As per government estimates, no less than a million Filipinos gathered on Sunday (Day One) at the Quirino Grandstand in what appears to be the largest rally so far to demand accountability over a flood-control corruption scandal that has implicated powerful members of Congress and top government officials.

Various groups have protested in recent months following the discovery that thousands of flood defence projects across one of the world’s most typhoon-prone countries were substandard, incomplete or simply did not exist.

Government engineers, public works officials and construction company executives have testified under oath in hearings by the Senate and a fact-finding commission that members of Congress and officials at the Department of Public Works and Highways took kickbacks from construction companies to help them win lucrative contracts and avoid accountability. 

Tall Order: Bring Zaldy Co back by December

Rose de la Cruz
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Tall Order: Bring Zaldy Co back by December

AMID WHAT LOOKED more like a scripted informal online expose last week by former Rep. Zaldy Co, persistent faces on the social media expressed doubt about the veracity of the resigned partylist congressman’s supposed “evidence” to back up his allegations.

Public clamor seeking his return has also gained traction if only to allow the Co, who is known to be an ardent political ally of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, to submit himself to investigations if only to ensure that whatever he said would be made under oath.

Co previously released a three-part video where he openly dragged the President and his cousin Martin into the P100-billion budget insertion in the 2025 national budget.

According to Co, who served as chairman of the House Appropriations Committee during the 19th Congress, it was Marcos who ordered the insertion of such a huge amount in the2025 national budget.

CINEMATIC STUNTS

However, Co’s nemesis at the lower House, Navotas City Rep. Toby Tiangco doesn’t seem convinced that the resigned partylist congressman will return to face the investigators, even as he claimed — “may pinoprotektahan mas malaking personalidad si Co dahil wala pa ring hakbang ang gobyerno para mapauwi siya ng Pilipinas.”

Tiangco, in an interview with Bilyonaryo News Channel, hinted at the need for the government to force Co to return and face investigators on his involvement in budgetary insertions for flood control projects while chair of the powerful House Appropriations Committee.

He also belittled Co’s recent alibis– shielding himself of any crime or guilt in such insertions and for amassing wealth for his companies during the Duterte administration.

BRING HOME PROOFS

Sen. Kilo Pangilinan asked Co this morning to return to the Philippines and detail his “serious allegations” under oath in relation to the flood control scandal before investigators.

“These are serious allegations,” Pangilinan said of Co’s accusations in videos dropped last Friday. 

“Hindi basta-basta dapat i-dismiss pero ang sa akin sana dito siya humarap… Para tumuloy na ‘yung proseso ng pag-iimbestiga,” Pangilinan told ANC. 

In the videos, Co insisted he didn’t gain a dime from the anomalies and that he received instructions to insert P100 billion worth of projects in the 2025 national budget from the President — through Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez. 

PROBE JUNIOR, KIN

Co, who later turned out to be a legitimate member of the powerful Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) which is staging a protest rally for transparency and accountability — also challenged the Senate and the Office of the Ombudsman to probe Marcos and Romualdez over the alleged budget insertions, as he showed suitcases supposedly containing cash to be delivered to them. 

Interestingly, the suitcases he presented in his video turned out to be a “hoax” with some even bearing price tags of the mall where they were bought to be presented as his evidence. 

Also, the luxury vehicles shown in his video were found to bear license plates starting with 8 (representative) and L (indicating the Davao region registry).

Both Romualdez and the President flatly denied Co’s allegations. 

DEAD MAN WALKING

Co even claimed that the former speaker asked him not to return and  threatened to “shoot me if I talk.”

Sen. Panfilo Lacson, chair of the Blue Ribbon Committee conducting the flood control scandal probe, said Co’s corruption claims lack weight without oath.

Co had previously been invited to inquiries into the flood control mess but has yet to face any investigating body. He has been out of the country since July.

On Saturday, the Ombudsman also urged Co to return to the Philippines and provide evidence of his allegations rather than issue video statements that were not made under oath.

DISCERNING BLOC 

Meanwhile, Pangilinan rejected the observation of some that the opposition had been quiet (based on one statement from Sen. Bato de la Rosa) following Co’s allegations.

“Hindi tayo nananahimik, tinitimbang natin nang maayos… Kasi gusto nating makuha yung sagot sa mga tanong natin, sino ba talaga ang nasa likod nito, mananagot ba ang dapat managot, nasaan ba ang ebidensya, where does the evidence lead us?” Pangilinan said.

“Pero kung hindi siya haharap maraming tanong pa ang nadagdag doon sa kanyang testimonya. So hindi tayo pwedeng basta-basta mag-conclude on the basis of itong 3 parts [na video]… We are not quiet. In fact, for the longest time, basta corruption ang issue, hindi tayo umaatras,” he assured.

CBCP RENEWS CALL

The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines renewed its call for “truth, justice and due process” following Co’s allegations that Marcos was behind the flood control corruption. 

The President earlier announced that suspects in the flood control scandals would be jailed “before Christmas.”

Protests! Protests! Protests!

Boni Macaranas
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Protests! Protests! Protests!

LOOKING FORWARD TO the November 30 “TRILLION PESO MARCH,” the panicky PNP apparently warns the unarmed marchers, or participants, that it has on-ready 15,000 patrolmen to face any unruly protest gathering!

And perhaps, as they did after the September 21 rallies, possibly arrest (for some strange reasons) a number of the rallyists, minors included. Whoa, haven’t they learned that their fellow Filipinos staging mobilizations to simply exercise, and quite peacefully, their constitutional right of Freedom of Assembly to express their grievances to a non-listening, neglectful, non-performing, government under a President Bongbong Marcos/VP Sara Duterte administration. 

The people are really wondering why this government administration has been so stupid not to understand that every time their constituents, the people, actually in a very real sense, their BOSS (yes, in capital letters!)mobilize in the streets, in a meaningful genuine sense, “parliament of the streets,” because this government’sexecutive branch, its legislative branch, Congress, and its judicial branch, have been blind to, and uncaring about, how the country has been wallowing in poverty, social injustice, massive human rights violations, for decades now – bad governance, in a nutshell!

‘And that as the country’s leaders, they probably missed noticing certain areas of governance which they should have addressed forthwith. Protest rallies in the streets would not be organized and carried out, especially if Bongbong and Sara have the intelligence and conscience, and sincerely have the heart of service for the people.’

STREET PARLIAMENT

As leaders, public officials of the country, they have been mandated simply to “DO THEIR JOBS,” that is, as the Philippine Constitution so clearly states, “to build a JUST and HUMANE society!” And NOT to exploit and oppress the people by stealing their money by way of corrupt practices, such as coming up with a budget with self-serving insertions (actually, pork barrel for their personal use), for kickbacks in the DPWH flood control and other infrastructure projects, and in other government programs.

Thus, for weeks now, since September 21, people have been, going to the streets and in socmed, crying out, “MGA KURAKOT PANAGUTIN!” “MGA MAGNANAKAW IKULONG NA AT BAWIIN ANG MGA NINAKAW!” 

And if this administration is bent on sending its armed PNP ground troops to face the rallyists on November 30, instead of humbly facing the crowds of protesters and listening to their complaints and suggestions for pro-people government policies and programs, the people’s disappointment in their leaders will again be reenforced! And forced, rain or shine, to launch their only weapon, “Parliament of the Streets.” 

ADDRESS FORTHWITH

Can’t President Bongbong and VP Sarah, and the government officials, understand that street mobilizations or people power is a big obvious signal to them that there are serious governance concerns that need their attention? 

And that as the country’s leaders, they probably missed noticing certain areas of governance which they should have addressed forthwith. 

Protest rallies in the streets would not be organized and carried out, especially if Bongbong and Sara have the intelligence and conscience, and sincerely have the heart of service for the people. 

In the absence of such IQ and compassion from the people’s so-called “Tatay at Nanay ng Bayan,” the people cannot help shouting in the streets, “IKULONG AND MGA POLITIKONG MAGNANAKAW!”    

Bryce Hernandez Is At The Center Of It All

Tracy Cabrera
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Bryce Hernandez Is At The Center Of It All

Corruption is a cancer: a cancer that eats away at a citizen’s faith in democracy, diminishes the instinct for innovation and creativity; already-tight national budgets, crowding out important national investments. It wastes the talent of entire generations. It scares away investments and jobs.

                               — United States 46th president Joseph Robinette Biden

RESIDENTS OF BALIUAG, Balagtas, Malolos, Pulilan, and several other towns in Bulacan never realized that beneath the flood waters that submerged their homes was proof of corruption pointing to officials in government who were supposedly there to serve public interest. 

At the focal point of this scandalous affair is a miniscule figure whose name unexpectedly bore enormous influence among his peers—Bryce Ericson D. Hernandez, the former assistant district engineer of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)–Bulacan First District Engineering Office (DEO).

Over the past few months, Hernandez has emerged as a key player in what government auditors and legislators now refer to as the largest infrastructure corruption schemes in our country’s history. 

GHOST PROJECTS

The Commission on Audit (COA) has so far filed 29 fraud audit reports implicating Hernandez in a spree of anomalous flood control projects, which include ghost construction, overpriced structures, mismatched sites and the systematic misuse of contractor licenses—most of them orchestrated under his watch.

According to COA, the projects were paid in full despite the fact that they were not completed or physically implemented. 

‘As of the moment, there is no official word on whether Hernandez will be offered—or granted—state witness status, and his request for witness protection remains pending. What is certain, though, is that whether he speaks more, backpedals again or falls silent …’

FRAUD AUDIT REPORTS

In September and October 2025 alone, state auditor filed nine fraud audit reports with the Office of the Ombudsman and 20 additional reports with the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), all of which were traced back to the Office of Mr. Hernandez. 

And in nearly every case that CoA scrutinized, there was found a disturbing pattern—projects were fully paid despite zero or incomplete implementation, progress billing was supported by falsified documents and site photos, signatures of resident engineers, end-users and contractors were forged and contractors’ licenses were borrowed or used without their knowledge.

In every one of these projects, Hernandez was among those COA held liable. 

In official reports, the agency recommended charges for graft and corruption under Republic Act No. 3019, as well as malversation and falsification of public documents under the Revised Penal Code.

NOT ONLY HERNANDEZ

However, it was not only Hernandez alone who profited from the scheme he created.  In the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing, the former assistant district engineer revealed that he was part of a bigger group whose formed an internal profit-sharing scheme that gave him a 20 percent cut for himself while 40 percent went to his boss, District engineer Henry Alcantara and the rest split in half to engineers JovelMendoza and Paul Duya.

He also implicated former President Joseph ‘Erap’ Estrada’s son, Senator Jose “Jinggoy Estrada” EjercitoJr., but he later recanted, saying “specifically, it’s really not Sen. Jinggoy.” 

And amidst all these, Hernandez has been found guilty of disloyalty, grave misconduct and conduct prejudicial to the service. 

The penalty for such includes perpetual disqualification from public office, forfeiture of benefits and cancellation from civil service.

As of the moment, there is no official word on whether Hernandez will be offered—or granted—state witness status, and his request for witness protection remains pending. What is certain, though, is that whether he speaks more, backpedals again or falls silent, Hernandez now stands as one of the most notorious figures in a scandal that has obliterated public trust in the country’s infrastructure system.

* * *

FOR your comments or suggestions, complaints or requests, just send a message through my email at cipcab2006@yahoo.com or text me at cellphone numbers 09171656792 or 09171592256 during office hours from Monday to Friday. Thank you and mabuhay! 

INC Rally for Transparency: Faith, Power, And The Filipino Way

Cheryl Luis True
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INC Rally for Transparency: Faith, Power, And The Filipino Way

LAST WEEKEND, THE Quirino Grandstand became ground zero for the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) Rally for Transparency. Hundreds of thousands showed up, rain or shine, waving banners and pins calling for honest governance. On the surface, inspiring: a religious group standing up to corruption and demanding accountability.

But peel back the layers, and it’s more than just a moral stand—it’s Filipino politics in action. INC isn’t just chanting slogans; it wields serious electoral power. Bloc voting means members follow the Executive Minister’s endorsements, and politicians often reciprocate with appointments and cozy ties. So can a church demand transparency while flexing political muscle? Yes—but it raises eyebrows about intent and consistency.

This is classic Filipino character: communal, relational, pragmatic. We rally behind moral causes, admire courage, and respect organized collective action. But we also notice when faith and strategy tango. Maybe the rally is moral, maybe political, maybe both—and that’s the messy beauty of democracy here.

The rally matters because it’s a lesson in civic muscle. Democracy isn’t just voting—it’s showing up, speaking out, demanding accountability. And it applies to everyone: government, institutions, and even religious organizations. If INC wants to champion honesty, their political moves must withstand the same scrutiny.

In the end, the INC rally is a mirror: hopeful, moralistic, politically savvy, and sometimes contradictory. It shows how faith, community, and power intertwine—and reminds Filipinos that transparency isn’t a slogan; it’s a practice. The real test isn’t the rally itself—it’s what comes next: sustained advocacy, real reforms, and a culture of accountability that goes beyond chanting and pin-wearing.

Sen. Mark Villar: A Man Without Liabilities

Rose de la Cruz
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Sen. Mark Villar: A Man Without Liabilities

NOT EVEN A tycoon, here or abroad, can declare having no liabilities, just assets. And in Senator Mark Villar’s December 2024 SALN (statement of assets, liabilities and networth) he declared a net worth of P1.262 billion and no liabilities whatsoever. 

He resigned as Secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways on October 6, 2021 to run for Senate in the May 2022 elections.

In his assets are 14 properties like houses, lots and condominiums worth P349.14 million; personal properties like cash, investments and other personal assets worth P912.2 billion or a total of P1.262 billion.

Mark Villar’s wife, DIWA Partylist Rep. Emmeline Aglipay Villar, was appointed the “caretaker” congresswoman for Las Piñas (when Mark resigned to run for senator) from August 2016 to 2019, but she was not elected as a district representative. The position of representative for Las Piñas’ lone congressional district was eventually filled up by Mark Villar’s sister, Camille, who was elected in 2019 — and later on elected senator during the May 2025 national elections.

This may not seem surprising considering that his father, Manny Villar, has for so many years been a top billionaire from the Philippines – apparently since his dad has been in politics (congress and senate) from 1998 to 2013 and wielding such power and influence he could easily get all forms of  concessions from the government. His wife, Cynthia, has been a senator for 11 years and a congressman for 9 years. She tried to return to the House last May 2025, but lost miserably in their bailiwick

Besides, their property businesses were more focused on the middle market, which is not too hard to sell.

Additionally, Villar reported business interests as a director of Himlay’s Realty Inc. and a stockholder in Major Asset Ventures Holdings, Inc. His family owns the publicly listed Vista Land and Lifescapes Inc., though this is not directly part of his personal SALN declaration.

BLUE RIBBON HEARING

But during the Senate Blue Ribbon hearing last Friday, resigned DPWH Secretary Roberto Bernardo claimed that Mark Villar exacted 50 percent commissions (nee kickbacks) for DPWH projects, during his term as DPWH chief.

Expectedly, he along with other lawmakers identified by Bernardo, denied such kickback allegations. The other names were former Senator Grace Poe, former Sen. Sonny Angara (now Education Secretary).

Bernardo claimed that when he became an assistant secretary in 2016, former DPWH Undersecretary Cathy Cabral was already in service. He alleged that Villar supposedly received commitments from DPWH when he was still head of the agency.

“The funding of all projects was cleared through Usec. Cabral for approval by Sec. Villar. From time to time, Usec. Cabral would ask me to submit a detailed list of projects regarding lump-sum fund allocations of DPWH, which she sometimes approves herself or forwards to Sec. Villar for approval,” Bernardo said.

“Among others, these include EDSA and other major road project applications, and maintenance of creeks and waterways. The commission from these approved projects was 10 percent and divided as follows: 50 percent to Carlo Aguilar, presumably for Sec. Mark Villar; 25 percent for Usec. Cabral; and 25 percent for myself,” Bernardo added.

DENIAL, AS USUAL

Villar said he stands by his “untarnished record” as a former DPWH secretary, representative, and now a senator.

“I vehemently and categorically deny the accusations made today in the Blue Ribbon Committee. Isa po itong malaking kasinungalingan (This is one big lie),” Villar said in a statement on Friday.

Villar then asked the public “to be discerning and not to rush judgment based solely on a person’s affidavit, which may be manufactured or tailored to fit his or other people’s convenience.” 

Last Friday’s revelations were reiteration of his previous testimonies before BRC, where he was previously included  as commitment (commissions) recipients: former senators Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. and Nancy Binay; Sen.Francis “Chiz” Escudero and Jinggoy Estrada; former Representatives Elizaldy Co (Ako Bicol), Mitch Cajayon-Uy (Caloocan), Rida Robes (San Jose del Monte); and former Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan and former Undersecretary Catalina Cabral.

But last Friday, he also linked former Sen. Grace Poe and incumbent Sen. Mark Villar, a former DPWH secretary, and former senator (now DepEd Secretary) Sonny Angara to the anomaly.

Angara, Revilla, Estrada and Escudero on Friday had separately denied Bernardo’s allegations. 

OPERATIONAL SET-UP

Bernardo was appointed DPWH assistant secretary in 2016, during Villar’s time under the Duterte administration, and coursed the commissions for Villar through the latter’s cousin, Carlo Aguilar,

Bernardo said Cabral, who was in charge of infrastructure programming and planning, was then working closely with Villar “for the allocation, listing, and budgeting of all the DPWH infrastructure projects.”

“The funding of all projects was cleared through [Undersecretary] Cabral for approval by [Secretary] Villar. From time to time, [Undersecretary] Cabral would ask me to submit [a] detailed list of projects regarding lump-sum fund allocations of DPWH which she sometimes approves herself or forward to Secretary Villar for approval,” he said.

“Among others, these include Edsa and other major road project applications, [and] maintenance of creeks and waterways. The commission for these approved projects was 10 percent and divided as follows: 50 percent to Carlo Aguilar, presumably for [Secretary] Mark Villar; 25 percent for Undersecretary Cabral; and 25 percent for myself,” Bernardo added.

Bernardo did not provide documents or cite other instances that would support his accusations against Villar and his cousin, Aguilar.

SENATOR GRACE POE

With regards to the allegations hurled against Poe, Bernardo said that sometime in the third quarter of 2024 “a staff of the lady senator requested [Secretary] Bonoan, through me, if [Poe] can be accommodated in the DPWH NEP (National Expenditure Program]. [Secretary] Bonoan told me there is P500 million for [Senator] Poe and instructed me to ask the senator for a list of projects.”

He further claimed that Poe’s staff member, whom he identified as JY dela Rosa, had told him to coordinate the matter with one Mrs. Patron, a contractor who would later instruct him to prepare the list.

“Upon my instructions, [National Capital Region district] engineer Gerard Opulencia submitted a consolidated list of the following projects: one in Laguna and three in [the NCR],” said Bernardo, adding that the list of projects was later included in the NEP by Bonoan through Cabral.

“Later on, the said projects appeared in the GAA [General Appropriations Act] for 2025. There was a 20-percent commitment for Sen. Grace Poe. Mrs. Patron, a contractor, collected the commitment for [Poe] at Diamond Hotel from one of my aides,” Bernardo said.

ANGARA AND OLAIVAR

He again alleged that Education Undersecretary Trygve Olaivar received “deliveries” for Education Secretary and former Sen. Sonny Angara.

“Aside from the details I had earlier mentioned in my affidavit dated Sept. 25, [Undersecretary] Trygve and I also had transactions concerning [Senator] Angara between 2019 and 2024 where [Undersecretary] Trygve received deliveries representing 12 percent of the project of [Angara] when he was chairman of [the Senate] finance [committee],” said Bernardo.

Olaivar had denied Bernardo’s allegation.

Bernardo, reiterating his earlier testimony, said he and Olaivar discussed the unprogrammed appropriations supposedly for the Office of the Executive Secretary.

“Thereafter, [the] DPWH received a Special Allotment Release Order (Saro) which included projects worth P2.85 billion. The contract IDs for the projects worth P2.85 billion covered by the said Saro can be secured from the records of the DPWH Regional Office for Region III (Central Luzon) and the First District Engineering Office of Bulacan,” said Bernardo.

But Angara denied the allegations — “In my 21 years in government, we have never been involved in corruption,” Angara said in a statement. “We reject any insinuation made that we were involved in anomalous projects.”

REVILLA AND JINGGOY

In his Friday’s testimony, Bernardo reiterated his dealings with Revilla and Estrada in 2023 and 2024, with whom he claimed to have  “close relationship” with both Revilla and Estrada.

“Sometime in the third quarter of 2024, Revilla and I met where he asked for a list of projects for funding ostensibly to help him in his national campaign. When Senator Revilla asked about the percentage of the commitment, I suggested either 20 percent or 25 percent, to which Senator Revilla said: 25 percent,” Bernardo recalled.

“Sometime in the last quarter of 2024, engineer [Henry] Alcantara collected the 25 percent commitment of about P125 million and informed me that the same was ready for turnover through engineer Gerard Opulencia,” he added.

Bernardo said he was told by Opulencia that the money was already in his vehicle. “After receipt of the 25 percent commitment, which were packed in six cardboard boxes, each containing at least P20 million, and one paper bag containing P5 million, I called up Senator Revilla to inform him the same is ready to be turned over to him,” he said noting that he went to the reelectionist senator’s house in Cavite in December 2024.

Before the start of the campaign period for national elective positions, he also directed one of his aides to deliver another P250 million to Revilla’s house. Revilla’s camp said Bernardo’s testimony should be taken with a grain of salt.

REVILLA RETALIATES 

“There is an inherent danger in giving credence to the allegations of someone who has long undermined the law. Allowing a perpetrator to recast himself as a truth-teller does not strengthen our justice system; it compromises it,” said lawyer Maria Carissa Guinto, Revilla’s spokesperson.

“This development is disappointing but not surprising. Once again, Revilla is being subjected to political persecution by forces harboring ill will against him. He categorically denies all allegations against him,” said Guinto.

Litigation arising from irregularities and corruption is nothing new to Revilla who was previously charged for plunder over the so-called pork barrel scam. 

The Sandiganbayan ruled to acquit Revilla but with a striking condition — that he should return the P124 million loot that was deposited by his chief of staff to his bank account.

To date, Revilla has yet to adhere to the order of the court. 

JINGGOY AS USUAL

As for Estrada, Bernardo said: “Sometime in 2023, [Senator] Jinggoy requested [Secretary] Bonoan, through me, for projects worth P500 million. [Bonoan] agreed to give P450 million for the DPWH NCR building which [Undersecretary] Cathy Cabral included in the NEP for 2024 with an 18-percent commitment for [Senator] Jinggoy,” said Bernardo.

Sometime in the first quarter of 2025, Bernardo said Estrada once again asked him to get a 25-percent commitment for other DPWH projects.

“Alcantara then delivered to me the 25-percent commitment, approximately P213 million, which I delivered to [Senator] Jinggoy … in San Juan City,” said Bernardo.

As expected, Estrada denied all the allegations. “The claim that I supposedly received a percentage from these projects is baseless, reckless, and unsupported by any credible evidence whatsoever,” Estrada said.

“I have always acted with integrity as a legislator, and I remain committed to transparency and accountability in all my public duties. I will pursue every available legal remedy against those who persist in spreading false, defamatory, and malicious statements,” he added.

CHIZ AND NANCY TOO

Bernardo reiterated his allegation that Binay asked, through an aide, for a 15-percent commitment sometime in the last quarter of 2023. Binay had earlier denied the allegation.

Escudero, he said, through businessman Maynard Ngu, received P280 million, made in two deliveries early this year. Escudero said the allegations against him were not new and had been denied and refuted before.

“There is no direct evidence presented in the testimony of Bernardo linking Senator Chiz to any criminal act. Speculations and insinuations are not evidence. These are at best hearsay, lack basis, and are self-serving statements that will not stand in any court of law,” he said, noting that the allegations were “malicious and baseless.”

DISCAYA’S NARRATIVES

Contractor Pacifico “Curlee” Discaya on Friday named several incumbent and former members of the House of Representatives and DPWH officials recorded in his payoff ledger, last Friday.

Among those who received commissions were Pasig City Rep. Roman Romulo, Quezon City Rep. Marvin Rillo, Caloocan Rep. Dean Asistio, Quezon City Rep. Patrick Michael Vargas, Quezon City Rep. Marivic Co-Pilar and Uswag Ilonggo Rep. Jojo Ang.

Former Undersecretary Terence Calatrava of the Office of the Presidential Assistant for the Visayas and former DPWH Undersecretary Bernardo, were also mentioned.

These officials were among the 17 people who were earlier identified by Discaya as allegedly soliciting money from their companies after being awarded a government project. All these lawmakers and Calatrava had earlier denied Discaya’s accusation.

Discaya submitted what he called a “partial” ledger to the committee. He has been detained at the Senate since he was cited for contempt on Sept. 18.

Blue Ribbon Committee chair Sen. Panfilo Lacson told Discaya to secure the complete ledger which contained the names of all lawmakers he implicated in his previous testimony.

BONOAN’S AFFIRMATION

At the resumption of Blue Ribbon investigation, former DPWH Chief Manuel Bonoan read a second supplemental affidavit where he admitted facilitating alleged kickbacks for Senators Jinggoy Estrada, Mark Villar, Education Secretary Sonny Angara, former senator Grace Poe, former Caloocan Rep. Mitch Cajayon-Uy, San Jose del Monte Mayor Rida Robes and former DPWH undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral.

Bernardo previously tagged  Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero, former senators Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. and Nancy Binay, and Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Zaldy Co amid the investigation into anomalous and ghost flood control projects.

In implicating Revilla, the former DPWH official said he prepared a list of projects for the former solon with 25% “commitments” or kickbacks worth P125 million. The money was allegedly delivered to Revilla’s residence in Bacoor, Cavite in December 2024 and was packed in six cardboard boxes, each containing P20 million, and one paper bag, containing P5 million. The former senator also allegedly received kickbacks worth P250 million in February 2025.

A spokesperson for Revilla dismissed Bernardo’s testimony, saying this “should be taken with a grain of salt.” She warned that “giving credence to allegations” of a supposed perpetrator who “recast himself as a truth-teller” compromises the justice system.

“This development is disappointing but not surprising. Once again, Revilla is being subjected to political persecution by forces harboring ill will against him. He categorically denies all allegations against him. These are outright fabrications intended to malign his reputation and to divert the attention of the public from the real culprits,” Revilla’s spokesperson, Atty. Maria Carissa Guinto, said in a statement.

VILLAR’S IMPRIMATUR

Bernardo said it is Cabral “with the imprimatur of Sec Mark Villar and later continued by Sec Manny Bonoan, who had control, at the DPWH level, to remove include, add, deduct, or modify insertions of items in the NEP for infrastructure or those pertaining to the DPWH”. 

It is also Cabral who allegedly communicates and meets with lawmakers to inform them of their kickbacks and ask them for titles of projects they want to include in the DPWH budget.

Bernardo also said he allegedly delivered cash to Cabral’s house in Quezon City.

Bernardo noted that in 2023, 2024, and 2025, Cabral apportioned the budget ceiling for the DPWH “allocable NEP” among the districts. Although she would allegedly make it appear to be utilized, Bernardo said Cabral would supposedly reserve a substantial percentage for her and Bonoan’s preferred projects.

Bernardo had more direct knowledge of Bonoan’s alleged involvement. The former undersecretary teared up when he detailed Bonoan’s role, as he had a close relationship with his former boss.

“I treasure his (Bonoan’s) guidance and friendship over the years,” Bernardo said. From being sidelined during the Villar years he said Bonoan “entrusted me with more operational functions and let me work more closely with Usec Cabral.”

BONOAN’S MANEUVER

Bonoan started to ask him to submit lists of projects starting 2022, according to Bernardo.

How it goes is the district engineers, particularly from the notorious Bulacan First District Engineering Office (1st DEO), submit a list of projects to DPWH top officials. It’s Cabral, whether acting on behalf of Villar or Bonoan or just by herself, who “shall facilitate and ensure the inclusion of these projects in the NEP” (National Expenditure Program) or the proposed national budget. This means Cabral makes sure these projects will be funded.

Bernardo said that from 2022 to 2025, during Bonoan’s tenure until he resigned, “I handled for Sec Bonoan at least P5 billion per annum for at least the years 2023, 2024 and 2025, with an average of 15% commitment (aka kickback).” 

Bernardo said the kickback percentage varied per occasion. In 2023, it was 10%; in 2024 it was 15%, and in 2025, it became 20%.

LION’S LOOT SHARE

He added that of the total kickbacks per project, Bonoan would get 75% while the remaining 25% would be split between Bernardo and Cabral.

“With respect to the commitments collected by Engineer [Henry] Alcantara narrated above, Sec Bonoan and I received a percentage. In many instances during budget deliberations, I was tasked by Sec. Bonoan to talk to legislators over their funding and other concerns, and to forward these concerns to Usec Cabral for action and resolution,” said Bernardo.

Bernardo also shared that Cabral and Bonoan would reserve some of the DPWH’s “allocable” budget “for their preferred projects.”

Allocable funds are available to fund Programs, Activities and Projects (PAPs). These are the funds available net of debt payment, salaries, and other mandatory expenses. In the DPWH, allocable funds are those set for districts considering each area’s ceiling. Those that fall outside of the district’s allocable funds are used for other DPWH projects.

Here We Go Again

Boy Villasanta
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Here We Go Again

AND THE MAIN protagonist, as usual, is Tito Sotto, a musician, comedian, on and off host of the daily noontime variety show, “Eat Bulaga” and the Senate President of the Philippines.

            This time around, though, the other main cast in the narrative is a fellow comedian, a former politician and erstwhile emcee of Senator Sotto’s TV show bailiwick.

            Prior to this, it was Senator Ronald “Bato” de la Rosa who was the adversary of Tito Sen on the former’s statements that the Senate isn’t a noontime show where what are being taken are all gimmicks after the chamber prexy delivered his speech that Bato’s appearance at tri-comm on the flood control project scandals is just a “gimmick.”

            In this latest rigmarole, Sotto’s nemesis has accused the good senator of a lot of aspersions although not concretely mentioned in his digital or Facebook complaint sheet which I find immaterial in the discussion.

            Whether Tito’s accusations against Anjo are personal, defamatory, slanderous or libelous don’t matter, in more ways than one, in my discourse or Yllana’s counterattacks aren’t material in the debate.

            I don’t even care about the wellsprings of Anjo’s complaints against his colleague in the entertainment industry or where his threats are coming from.

            Or if they matter at all, they deserve another column.

            Here’ are Yllana’s rants: “Tito Sen, ang dami mo na naman na pinalabas…’yung mga bayaran mo na mgavlogger. Gusto mo i-reveal ko na mula2013 kung sino po ‘yung kabit niyo? Sige lang, banatan n’yo lang ako at marami akong ilalabas (You have come out so much against me…from your paid vloggers/bloggers. You want me to reveal your paramours since 2013? Go ahead, criticize me and I will come out so much about you).”

            Here’s Sotto’s response to Anjo: “Huwag n’yong pansinin (at nagpapapansin) ‘yan. Pati ba naman shiwbiz (estet) at paninira, papatulan natin. Itaas natin ang level ng (Don’t mind him–he’s just courting/drawing attention. Do we still mind showbiz and character assassination/mudslinging. Let’s raise the level of (Senate President).”

            There are other issues Yllana came out against Tito Sen but in this discussion, I will dismiss them to focus on the misdirected and miseducated perceptions of the two celebs who are, unfortunately, major influencers and stars in the mass media and politics even if Anjo is inactive in public office at the moment.

            Yllana’s reactions on his object of aggression are definitely political.

            It is precisely a daily and common social practice of people in the quotidian who are pushed to the wall and need something as self-defense to hegemonize.

            Where in the world are these two personalities when show business is a field as serious, vital, staid and socially structured as any other?

            If one closely scrutinizes the statements of Sotto, he is condescending his own profession in the biz where he started to build a name for himself as a stepping stone to a political, or if you may, public service career.

            Show business is such a noble profession if only to serve the interest of the people—to liberate them from the chains of oppression, ignorance, exploitation etc. by presenting truths in any spectacle on TV, radio, theater, film, music, multimedia etc.

            Showbiz isn’t only entertainment it is an art and a utilitarian medium as well.

            What makes it low, trash and cheap are toilet rumors, distorted facts, escapist fares if not lies, feudal values in workplaces, complacency etc.

            Here’s the caveat: Anjo said, he is just bluffing, after all. 

            What a politicizing, polarizing and concealing tactic of real issues? 

On Floods, Greed, and Rotten Roots

Erlie Lopez
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On Floods, Greed, and Rotten Roots

AFTER THREE MONTHS of the flood control maelstrom, I can sigh that my rage has cooled down. Not that the grand theft (from public funds) and deceit (sub-standard and ghost projects) have faded as yesterday’s headlines but I see justice now grinding, slowly maybe but with the right people at the helm. 

Sen. Ping Lacson has steered the Blue RibbonCommittee with investigative sharpness, Department of Public Works and Highways Sec. Vince Dizon is still passionately pursuing the money trails and un-/mis- addressed community problems, Ombudsman BoyingRemulla bristles with legal clarity and boldness, and the Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI) is credible though with less theater in digging up the truths.

Thus, the “syndicate” of DPWH officials and engineers, the infrastructure contractors, and the budget-streaming legislators are now being chased with jail terms and restitution of their flaunted bounties. 

It will then be short-sighted of the many offended citizens like me, to stop at the flood control greed and misdeed. So, I am now expanding my scrutiny to the other malfeasances, using my environmental lens, in the hope we can uproot as many weeds and renew the soil.

‘Is it possible to end corruption which is driven by greed, a strong weakness of the mind, heart, and conscience? Maybe, all is not lost in hoping that in our country, there are ways and a stronger commitment to breed a new kind of shepherd … and flock.’

THE DUTERTE SCAM

The root of it all, from 2016 to 2022, is undoubtedly the former president Rodrigo Duterte. Such abuses could not have prospered without the blessing or connivance of the most powerful in the land, he who could shepherd the country to bloom or doom. And with his blatant Extra-Judicial Killings policy and record, other crimes would simply be bratty, at the least, and less mortal than crimes against humanity.

Related to the flood control misdeed, here are two big issues with environmental and social nature he manipulated to suit his warped values:

PROJECT NOAH

It is the nationwide program on disaster risk reductionand management initiated in 2012 in the term of President Benigno Aquino III. Using science and technology to provide accurate hazard information and early warnings, it aimed to help prevent and mitigate the impact of national disasters like typhoons, floods, and landslides. 

Functioning from 2012 to 2017 under the Department of Science and Technology until de-funded, it was thankfully absorbed by the University of the Philippines which particularly shone with its use in the two recent typhoons. 

Later, it was assumed though that funding was not the issue but the transparency of the system that would easily track corruption like what happened in the flood control. In the investigations, there are growing evidences of links between the succeeding Duterte admin and the flood control theft-and-deceit syndicate.

MINING

PRRD lifted the 9-year ban by the Aquino admin on new mining deals. This infuriated then Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Gina Lopez to passionately talk on the large mining activity denuding the mountains, killing the environment, displacing communities, and reducing protection to the lowlands. 

Pro-mining lobbies that ensued then led to her rejection by the Commission on Appointments which virtuallygave pass to more extractions of natural resources.

Others: indiscriminate land conversions among them, forests, agricultural lands, and indigenous communitieswhich could have been bought by special contract favors.  

ENDING GREED

Is it possible to end corruption which is driven by greed, a strong weakness of the mind, heart, and conscience? 

Maybe, all is not lost in hoping that in our country, there are ways and a stronger commitment to breed a new kind of shepherd (president to legislators, other public servants) and flock.

Bato’s Crimes Vs Humanity

Boni Macaranas
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Bato’s Crimes Vs Humanity


SENATOR BATO DE la Rosa has always claimed no regrets or remorse on his primary role on ICC jailbird Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s “War on Drugs, Operation Tokhang, Operation Double Barrel.” 

That is, from 2011 to 2019, when his idol, the current ICC jailbird, was Davao city mayor, and was president until 2019 — causing the extra-judicial killings (EJKs) of about, or more than, 30,000 Filipinos, youths included. 

And as even a baby was killed during such bloody operations, Sen. Bato de la Rosa commented without batting an eyelash, “Shit happens!”

PROTECTING A SENATOR?

Just lately, Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla announced that “ICC NAGLABAS NA NG ARRESTWARRANT VS. SEN. BATO DELA ROSA.” (DZRH NEWS) A surprise: Sunday INQUIRER headlined, “BERSAMIN ON ICC ARREST OF BATO: NOT SO FAST.” 

His reason: the former PNP chief “won’t be joining Duterte in an ICC detention facility in the Hague, the Netherlands, anytime soon.” 

His reason: the Supreme Court requires “a prior resort to a court before the person subject of extradition may be brought out of the country.”

Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto, on the possible arrest of Sen. Bato dela Rosa, said that “to preserve the dignity of the Senate, and as a matter of institutional courtesy, we cannot allow any senator to be arrested in the Senate premises.” 

Are they protecting a criminal from joining the ICC jailbird?

‘Justice is the bedrock of a democratic government. The people’s rights to enjoy having decent fairly-paid jobs can serve as the THE foundation, for a just and humane giveaway that a government leadership, upon assumption of a position of public trust, must forthwith work on and establish for the people.’

MARCHING ORDER

Every Filipino concerned about how the country is faring in terms of social justice, or how plain justice is served, human rights protection, and how theBongbong-Sarah partnership have been leading the country, cannot help shaking his/her head, and saying “My God, can’t they see that their mandate, according to the Philippine Constitution, is not to steal the people’s money and enjoy political/economic powerexclusively for their families, but to build a just and humane society!” 

This mandate, in fact, has been the marching order toall government officials — the Senators, Congressmen, Cabinet Secretaries, Judges, Supreme Court Justices,LGU officials from the Governor down to the barangay councilors, as well as the AFP and PNP officers andtheir ground personnel nationwide.

CLAMOR FOR JUSTICE

In this regard, the Filipino people, most especially the families of the victims (of the Digong-Bato brutal “War on Drugs”) and the street parliamentarians, have been clamoring for justice and good governance since 2016. 

They are praying for deliverance from oppression,violations of human rights, high prices of basic food items, drug lords on the loose, corruption in the DPWH and other government institutions, joblessness, unfair wages, defective educational system, weak healthcare programs, ineffective response to China’s encroachment on the country’s sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea, and various gross injusticesunaddressed by the Bongbong Marcos/Sarah Duterte administration. 

Justice is the bedrock of a democratic government. The people’s rights to enjoy having decent fairly-paid jobs can serve as the THE foundation, for a just and humane giveaway that a government leadership, upon assumption of a position of public trust, must forthwithwork on and establish for the people.  

GOVERNANCE IQ

With every working-age Filipino earning from his/her own livelihood or decent job, given a responsive andpolitically/economically stable government, he/she becomes an active productive member of society. 

He/she is able then to enjoy a decent life with his own home, even perhaps a plot of land, able to support the education of his/her kids, including their health-needs, and other amenities of life. 

In fact, enjoying a stable homelife, he/she is able to even have time to help others-in-need within his/her sphere of influence. Question: “Does Marcos-Duterte team have any governance IQ, for justice’ sake, to put Bato in jail?”  

Technical Experts: Are They Truly Heard?

Raymund Narag
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Technical Experts: Are They Truly Heard?

WE HAVE TECHNICAL experts in government. Engineers, planners, scientists, analysts. They are the best minds in their fields.  They are graduates of our best schools. They have master’s degrees, some even PhDs. They study abroad, attend international trainings, speak fluent “development language.” They prepare PowerPoints with the polish of international consultants. They talk about “systems improvement,” “data-driven solutions,” and “evidence-based planning.” They dream of a better, more efficient Philippines.

But in the end, they are nothing.

They are decorations in the bureaucratic hallways, token ornaments to make government look competent. They are the fig leaves that cover the naked greed of the powerful. They are there to make the bosses appear smart, modern, and progressive—but never to decide, never to lead.

REAL DISCUSSIONS
Because in the Philippines, the real decisions are not made by those who know. They are made by those who own. The appointed, the elected, the padrinos, the godfathers of the system.

I have seen this too many times. The experts make the plan. They are told to produce a concept note, “quickly and efficiently.” The deadline, as always, is “yesterday.” So they stay up late. They work weekends. They gather data. They read the latest research. They study best practices. They put their heart and soul into crafting something good, something truly beneficial for the people.

Then they submit the draft. The boss reads it—well, glances at it—and nods. Then the boss presents it to his boss. The top boss—the one who owes his position to political debt, not technical competence—looks at the plan, squints, and says, “Pwede, pero palitan natin ito.”

Why? Because he has other considerations. The experts think of efficiency, sustainability, and integrity. The politicians think of paano ako kikita rito?

That is how the story always goes. The plan gets watered down, diluted, distorted, until it becomes unrecognizable. What began as a proposal to save lives ends up as a project to save face—and line pockets. The experts sit there, helpless. They cannot protest. They cannot assert their expertise. They are reminded of their place.

SO CALLED TECHNICAL EXPERTS
Because in our bureaucracy, technical experts are not the spine of the institution—they are its kneecaps. They are meant to bend.

And so, they do. Out of fear. Out of survival. They become “team players.” They go with the flow, even when the flow is heading straight to corruption. They watch as their ideas are mangled by greed. They watch as their warnings are ignored. They watch as disaster unfolds—floods that could have been prevented, bridges that could have lasted, policies that could have worked.

And when tragedy strikes—when a typhoon hits, when a bridge collapses, when a flood drowns a city—the same politicians blame them. The same experts who were silenced are suddenly asked, “Why didn’t you do something?”

‘The cycle of stupidity will continue, because in this country, being right is not as important as being loyal. Technical experts in the Philippines? They fare exactly as you expect: ignored if honest, rewarded if corrupt.’

EXPERT TURNED ACCOMPLICE

It is the same sad pattern I wrote about before. We saw it in the corruption of flood control projects. The engineers and planners knew the problem. They saw the weak designs, the overpriced contracts, the recycled materials. But what could they do? Their reports were rewritten. Their signatures were forced. Their silence was bought.

This is the unholy marriage of greed and knowledge—the expert turned accomplice.

At first, they resisted. But later, they learned the system. They used their technical skills not to expose corruption, but to hide it. They learned how to make ghost projects look legitimate, how to pad budgets without raising suspicion, how to write “justifications” that would pass the scrutiny of auditors.

Soon, they too became rich. Not because they were excellent, but because they learned to survive by joining the rot.

That is how our district engineers became millionaires. That is how consultants built mansions. That is how bright minds became shadows of the very thing they once swore to reform.

PERFUME IN A GARBAGE DUMP
And the agencies? They became theaters of absurdity. 

Technical experts became palamuti—decorations to impress visiting dignitaries. They are the “resource persons” who present at international conferences while their bosses strike deals under the table. They are the “innovators” whose outputs are shelved, the “policy specialists” whose memos gather dust.

They are perfume in a garbage dump, asked to mask the stench of corruption.

In the end, it does not matter how brilliant you are, how many studies you’ve published, or how many best practices you can cite. In this system, what matters is whose hand you kiss.

And so, the same cycle continues. The experts draft proposals that no one reads. The politicians make speeches about reforms that never come. The people suffer from floods, crumbling roads, and broken systems that could have been fixed decades ago.

ALLERGIC TO COMPETENCE
We are a country allergic to competence. We distrust expertise. We ridicule intellect. We worship the loud, the connected, the “malakas.”

The tragedy is not that we lack talent. The tragedy is that our talent has been silenced, bought, or buried under the weight of political greed.

Look at the great nations today—they are led by technocrats. Engineers, scientists, policy thinkers. People who know what they are doing. In the Philippines, we still think leadership is a family business. We think public office is an inheritance, not a duty.

And so, our experts remain on the sidelines—watching, whispering, waiting for the day when integrity will matter more than connections.

Until then, the real experts will remain invisible, drowned in the noise of sycophants and slogans. Their brilliance will continue to decorate PowerPoint slides that never see the light of implementation. Their reports will continue to be signed by those who cannot even spell “feasibility.”

And the next time a bridge collapses or a city floods, the experts will again be blamed, even if their warnings were ignored.

CYCLE OF STUPIDITY

The cycle of stupidity will continue, because in this country, being right is not as important as being loyal.

Technical experts in the Philippines? They fare exactly as you expect: ignored if honest, rewarded if corrupt.

And that, perhaps, is the cruelest irony of all—when knowledge itself becomes powerless in the face of ignorance with power.

Walking Pneumonia: The Cold That Just Won’t Quit (And Why Everyone’s Sniffling Again)

Gwenn Canlas
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Walking Pneumonia: The Cold That Just Won’t Quit (And Why Everyone’s Sniffling Again)

IF YOU’VE BEEN coughing for weeks, sounding like a busted motorcycle, and blaming it on “the flu going around”—you might actually be dealing with walking pneumonia.

Don’t let the chill name fool you. It’s not a new TikTok dance or a zombie trend. It’s a sneaky lung infection caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and it’s the reason your “mild cold” refuses to pack up and leave. 

And with the Department of Health now warning about a rise in flu-like illnesses, this bacteria might just be the uninvited guest crashing everyone’s immune system right now.

THE “I’M FINE” DISEASE

Walking pneumonia is the great pretender. It starts off feeling like the flu’s quiet cousin—low fever, dry cough, sore throat, fatigue. Nothing dramatic enough to send you to bed, but just enough to make you feel like you’ve been run over by Monday.

You tell yourself you’re fine. You go to work, you go to the gym, you even meet friends for coffee. You’re a hero—until you realize you’ve been heroically infecting half your office. Because this thing spreads through droplets, which means every cough, sneeze, or breathy complaint about traffic could be gifting someone else a matching cough.

That’s the beauty (and curse) of walking pneumonia—you can still “walk.” You just shouldn’t.

‘Walking pneumonia is the sneaky villain behind all these “lingering colds” and “mystery flu” cases popping up lately. It’s mild enough to ignore but strong enough to wreck your lungs if you keep pretending it’s nothing.’

WHY YOU SHOULD STOP TOUGHING IT OUT

People love to brag about how they “never get sick.” Cute. But if your cold’s been squatting in your body for more than a week, cold meds aren’t working, and your cough sounds like it belongs in a horror soundtrack—it’s time to see a doctor.

Left untreated, walking pneumonia can level up into bronchitis, asthma flare-ups, sinus infections, or full-blown pneumonia. In rare cases, it can even mess with your heart or brain (and not in a rom-com way).

A quick visit to your doctor and a chest X-ray or blood test can confirm it. The treatment’s simple—antibiotics, rest, fluids, and a little humility. Because no one’s handing out medals for “Employee of the Month: Coughing Edition.”

THE NEW RULES OF NOT BEING GROSS

There’s no vaccine for walking pneumonia, so it’s up to you not to be the Patient Zero of your friend group. Here’s how:

• Wear a mask if you’re coughing, sneezing, or suspect you’ve caught something. It’s not 2020 anymore, but germs didn’t get the memo. Masks still work.

• Wash your hands like your crush is watching. Soap, water, 20 seconds—basic hygiene, not rocket science.

• Don’t share drinks, utensils, lipstick, or vape pens. (You wouldn’t share a toothbrush, right? Same idea.)

• Cover your mouth when you cough with your elbow, not your bare hand. We’re adults—let’s act like it.

• Avoid close contact with anyone coughing like a dying seal. Friendship has limits, and this is one of them.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Walking pneumonia is the sneaky villain behind all these “lingering colds” and “mystery flu” cases popping up lately. It’s mild enough to ignore but strong enough to wreck your lungs if you keep pretending it’s nothing.

So, if you’re tired of being tired, if your cough is starting to sound like a remix, or if your “flu” is now old enough to vote—get it checked. Don’t self-medicate, don’t spread it, and for the love of public health, wear a mask.

Because being sick happens. Being stubborn and contagious? That’s a choice.

The Certified Prick Verdict: Stop calling it “just the flu.” If it’s been two weeks and you’re still coughing, that “flu” is walking—right into pneumonia territory.

—The Certified Prick
The Health Column That Doesn’t Sugarcoat (Unless It’s About Diabetes)

Reforming Systems Underway Amid Flood Control Scandal

Rose de la Cruz
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Reforming Systems Underway Amid Flood Control Scandal

IN A WAY, the expose by President Marcos of the multi billion flood control projects fund scandal is leading to reforms in government’s regulations.

The scandal has enraged the people to a point where politicians, the President included, have been forced to make serious efforts to introduce reforms in the system– from budget approval, to regulating contractors, instituting measures against shell companies being used by money launderers and more.

The revival by Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla of access to SALNs of government officials now brings a promise to the people of transparency and hopefully even accountability within government– national and local. But vigilance by the people is of utmost concern as local officials, whose mindset is that their distance to the capital, would make it hard for them to be monitored and sanctioned to toe the official line.


LOYALTY TO DUTERTE

Slowly, the lawmakers are now formulating guidelines to comply with SALN (statement of assets, liabilities and networth), which was quashed to oblivion by the predecessor of Remulla — Ombudsman Martires, whose loyalty to the former president made him rule against public (including media) access to SALNs, which he claimed are being weaponized against the incumbents.

Then Sen. Risa Hontiveros and Congressman ChelDiokno made available their SALNs as a show of support to the public’s clamor on transparency and accountability. Hopefully, more lawmakers would open their SALNs as a sign of sensitivity to people’s aspirations.

HOUSE TO REVIEW SALNs

Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III formed a committee to review the chamber’s guidelines on releasing net worth statements, amid calls for greater government transparency. 

The memorandum, which he said takes effectively immediately, directs the committee– chaired by Deputy Speaker Rep. Ferdinand Hernandez (Cotabato) with Iloilo Rep. Lorenz Defensor and Marikina Rep. Romero Federico Quimbo as deputies–  to begin reviewing the House’s rules on publicizing lawmakers’ SALNs.

Dy, who released his SALN last week, said the lawmakers are open to releasing their SALNs, following Ombudsman Jesus Crispin C. Remulla’sreversal of Martires’ restrictions to such documents. Republic Act 6713, the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, assigns multiple custodians for SALNs across government branches and regions.

Dy declared a networth of P74 million, including 11 agricultural lots, two residential lots, and three houses plus assets like P25.18 million cash, P29.6 million investments and P12 million worth of jewelry and personal items. 

The Ombudsman is the repository of net worth statements of the President, Vice-President and heads of Constitutional offices. The Office of the President holds those of the Cabinet, presidential appointees and high-ranking military officials. Legislators file theirs with their respective chambers, while judges and justices submit theirs to the Office of the Court Administrator and the Supreme Court’s Clerk of Court, respectively.

Political Science lecturer, Hansley Juliano, told Business World that the House SALN release policy should not be too complicated and be bogged down with bureaucratic processes. 

“As long as it is consistent with lobbied standards for Freedom of Information (FOI) requests, and as long as it provides the relevant information, we should not complicate the process and we should not involve too many politicians,” he said.

‘The SEC would not hesitate to give timely data access to authorized personnel, including law enforcement agencies, competent authorities, and other government bodies…False ownership data could cost companies up to ₱2 million and even lead to dissolution.

FOI IS EASIER

Juliano said it would be easier for the House to just pass an FOI law to ease government requests, like SALN releases. “They’d garner more with that legislation.”

The Speaker also listed 16 relatives in government service, including a nephew serving as Philippine Ambassador to Switzerland. His son, daughter-in-law and another nephew currently hold mayoral posts in cities and municipalities across Isabela province, the clan’s stronghold. Three of his relatives are also district representatives of Isabela, occupying half of the legislative seats in the lower house allocated to the northern province.

Ombudsman Remulla opened his SALN last Tuesday and President Marcos also indicated his intention to release his SALN.


SEC TIGHTENS GRIP ON FIRMS

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is drafting new rules requiring companies to reveal the true owners of the firm to boost accountability in the financial system. Under the proposal, corporations must report any change in beneficial ownership within seven days. The SEC is pushing a crackdown on dubious ownership structures associated with money laundering and tax evasion.

The SEC would not hesitate to give timely data access to authorized personnel, including law enforcement agencies, competent authorities, and other government bodies.

Penalties for untruthful disclosures are: Stock corporations with retained earnings of less than ₱500,000 will pay ₱50,000 for first violation until ₱500,000 for the fourth. Non-stock corporations face ₱25,000 to ₱250,000 for similar violations.

False ownership data could cost companies up to ₱2 million and even lead to dissolution. Corporate officers, trustees, and directors who neglect their duty to ensure compliance will also be fined, starting at ₱50,000 and rising to ₱1 million for repeated offenses.

EYES SET ON BIDDERS

The Department of Trade and Industry, which recently took over the graft-ridden  Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board, which grants license to contractors, prohibits PCAB members from owning construction companies themselves due to a “conflict of interest,” 

DTI Secretary Cristina Roque said PCAB has been linked to the massive corruption in the flood control projects of the DPWH as all companies require a PCAB license to participate in bidding.

Comebacking Blue Ribbon Committee chair, Sen. Panfilo Lacson has called for PCAB’s overhaul as he described it as a “low-key yet corrupt-ridden regulatory body” following allegations of licenses being sold.

CASH WITHDRAWALS LIMIT SET

Shocked by the hundreds of millions of pesos that a contractor withdrew from a flood control project fund deposited with the Land Bank branch in Bulacan, the Bangko Sentral is now limiting cash withdrawals over the counter to only P500,000.

It has reminded banks of their mandate to be vigilant about possible infractions to the money laundering and dubious accounts that criminals might use for arms and drugs financing.

BSP Gov. Eli Remolona, who chairs the AMLC, said the agency has already issued over 700 freeze orders covering bank accounts, insurance policies and other assets of individuals linked to the flood control scandal. More are expected in the coming days.

Vico Sotto Among The World’s Most Influential Leaders

Domingo P. Herras
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Vico Sotto Among The World’s Most Influential Leaders

WHEN TIME MAGAZINE released its 2025 TIME100 Next list, a global roster of rising leaders shaping the future, one Filipino name stood tall among innovators, changemakers, and visionaries — Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto.

At 36, Sotto is the only Philippine leader included this year, recognized under the “Leaders” category for his exemplary model of transparent, ethical, and people-centered governance.

TIME100 Next is an expansion of the annual TIME100, launched in 2019 to spotlight emerging leaders whose influence is shaping tomorrow’s world. 

“It is a snapshot of the moment,” said TIME’s Editor-in-Chief Sam Jacobs, “and proof that true influence knows no age.”

For Pasigueños and Filipinos across the country, Sotto’s recognition is more than an individual honor—it is a beacon of hope for the possibility of change in Philippine politics.

BREAKING DYSNASTIES

Sotto’s political journey began with a quiet yet revolutionary victory. In 2019, he dismantled a 27-year political dynasty in Pasig, not with vast machinery or deep political coffers, but with an unconventional weapon: radical transparency.

His leadership style—direct, data-driven, and empathetic—is often described as a refreshing departure from traditional patronage politics. It is this reformist approach that TIME sought to spotlight, with Nobel Peace Prize laureate and journalist Maria Ressa writing the tribute in his honor.

“In the Philippines, fighting corruption feels like death by a thousand cuts—each small victory eroded by the system’s capacity to regenerate. But Vico Sotto is proving it can be done,” Ressa wrote.

“At 36, Pasig City’s mayor has toppled a 27-year family dynasty not through money or machinery, but through radical transparency. His courageous approach is a master class in modern, ethical leadership and has twice won him re-election, including in May.”

ICONIC GOVERNANCE

At home, Sotto is not just a mayor—he is a convenor of the Mayors for Good Governance (M4GG), a coalition of reform-minded local executives across the Philippines. 

His inclusion in TIME100 Next, M4GG declared, is both a personal milestone and a collective victory for citizens demanding accountability and reform.

Internationally, Sotto now shares space with other honorees such as digital harassment advocate Elliston Berry, New Zealand’s Gen Z Māori leader Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, and Thai golf prodigy Jeeno Thitikul — a diverse group illustrating a leadership which goes beyond parliaments and boardrooms— and thriving in city halls, grassroots movements, and communities worldwide.

BEYOND SYMBOLISM

For a country long plagued by systemic corruption and political dynasties, Sotto’s rise and continued success offer proof that an alternative model of politics is possible. 

His repeated victories at the ballot box indicates that the electorate is willing to embrace leaders embodying transparency, accountability, and empathy.

TIME’s Editor-in-Chief Sam Jacobs explained that the TIME100 Next list serves as “a lens to understand global leadership and influence, featuring honorees from fields such as AI, climate, health, philanthropy, and the creative industry.” 

That a Filipino mayor is counted among these global changemakers underscores how local reform can inspire international recognition.

A GENERATION SHIFT 

Sotto’s recognition is also part of a generational wave. Young Filipinos are increasingly demanding leaders who are principled rather than transactional, transparent rather than corrupt, empathetic rather than authoritarian.

As Ressa captured, “It’s a testament to the power of the individual to ignite a movement for a change.”

LOOKING AHEAD  

As Sotto joins TIME’s circle of influential leaders, the question is no longer whether he can continue reforming Pasig—it is whether his brand of leadership can inspire national and global transformations.

For now, the recognition stands as both honor and responsibility. For Filipinos weary of politics-as-usual, it is also a glimmer of hope: that integrity, empathy, and good governance can command not only local trust but global attention.

From Pasig to the world, Mayor Vico Sotto embodies the enduring Filipino aspiration for honest, ethical, and visionary leadership.  

UNESCO Designates QC As Creative City Of Film

Domingo P. Herras
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UNESCO Designates QC As Creative City Of Film

A NEW CHAPTER IN in Philippine cinema has begun. Quezon City, the heart of the country’s film heritage, has been officially designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as a Creative City of Film—one of only a few Southeast Asian cities to receive such global distinction.

The recognition affirms what many already believe — that Quezon City is not only the country’s administrative and cultural capital but also the beating heart of its film industry.

FILIPINO STORYTELLING 

The UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) celebrates urban centers that integrate creativity and culture into sustainable development. With Quezon City’s inclusion, the Philippines joins a prestigious circle of 408 cities worldwide that use arts and innovation to drive progress and foster inclusion.

UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay said, “Creative Cities demonstrate that culture and creative industries are powerful engines of development. By welcoming new cities, we strengthen a network where creativity supports local initiatives, attracts investment, and promotes social cohesion.”

This year’s announcement also marks a milestone, as UNESCO introduces “Architecture” as a new creative field, joining seven existing categories — Crafts and Folk Art, Design, Film, Gastronomy, Literature, Media Arts, and Music.

OFFICIALLY A FILM CITY

For years, Quezon City has been nurturing its film ecosystem through festivals, talent programs, and incentives. Now, under Mayor Joy Belmonte’s leadership, its dream of becoming a global creative hub has become reality.

“QC Film City is now a name that will forever be etched in the legacy of every filmmaker, artist, and storyteller who has shaped our city’s vibrant film heritage,” said Mayor Belmonte. “From the golden era of Sampaguita Pictures to today’s new generation of creators, this recognition honors them all.”

Belmonte emphasized that the recognition also belongs to the city’s film workers—camera operators, editors, writers, and every QCitizen who supports the art. “Today, we celebrate a big achievement in Philippine cinema—but the work starts again tomorrow,” she said. 

CREATIVE GOVERNANCE 

Behind Quezon City’s successful bid is the Quezon City Film Commission (QCFC), which led the application to UNESCO in 2023. 

QCFC Executive Director Liza Diño described the achievement as “the culmination of years of collaboration, vision, and belief in the power of storytelling to shape our collective identity.”

“This is not just recognition,” Diño added. “It is a call to deepen our commitment to creative governance and cultural sustainability. Creativity is not an afterthought of governance—it is its very soul.”

LOCAL FILM WORKERS 

The UNESCO designation also comes with a commitment to protect and professionalize the city’s film industry. Among the upcoming initiatives are:

QC Screen Academy – a public, industry-supported training hub for skills development in film production, marketing, and distribution.

Global Producers Exchange (GPX) – a platform connecting producers from Southeast Asia and UNESCO Creative Cities to collaborate and share insights.

Southeast Asia Film Summit – an annual event gathering policymakers, film commissions, and industry leaders to discuss regulation, incentives, and financing.

These programs aim to strengthen local talent, ensure fair wages and safe working conditions under the Eddie Garcia Law, and create sustainable opportunities for filmmakers.

GLOBAL PH CINEMA

Quezon City’s inclusion in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network reinforces the Philippines’ long-standing legacy in film—home to icons such as Lino Brocka, Ishmael Bernal, Nora Aunor, Dolphy, and Fernando Poe Jr.

As part of a global network that includes creative cities like Busan, Sydney, and Rome, Quezon City is poised to represent the Filipino voice in world cinema.

“This recognition tells the world that Filipino creativity knows no bounds,” said Diño. “We are ready to open our doors to collaboration and build a city where stories thrive and creativity empowers every citizen.”

FUTURE LEGACY 

The designation marks not just an honor, but a long-term commitment to cultural sustainability. Through education, partnerships, and inclusive development, Quezon City aims to make film not just an art form—but a driving force for progress.

With its new role as UNESCO’s Creative City of Film, Quezon City has stepped into the global spotlight—bringing with it the creativity, resilience, and soul of the Filipino storyteller.

Co Admits Guilt, But Wants Brains Incarcerated Too

Angel F. Jose
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Co Admits Guilt, But Wants Brains Incarcerated Too

FORMER AKO BICOL partylist Rep. Zaldy Co must have realized that he has been reduced into a sacrificial lamb in a crime involving two most powerful personalities in the country.

This comes as Co dragged his former allies — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and his cousin, former Speaker Martin Romualdez, as the brains behind anomalies and kickbacks behind the flood control scandal.

In a video released to reporters, Co specifically tagged Marcos and Romualdez — along with top Cabinet members – of orchestrating supposed “insertions” amounting to P100 billion in the 2025 national budget.

Among the most prominent cabinet members he dragged into the budget insertion is Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman.

THE PRESIDENT’S ORDER

“Nagsimula ito noong tumawag si Si Amenah Pangandaman sa akin nung nag-umpisa ang BICAM process last year, 2024… sabi niya, katatapos lang ng meeting nila ni Pangulo at may instructions na mag-insert ng 100 billion worth of projects sa BICAM,” Co said in the video.

“At sinabi pa ni Secretary Menah, you can confirm with Undersecretary Adrian Bersamin dahil magkasama sila sa meeting ni Pangulong BBM nung araw na ‘yun,” Co added.

It was at that juncture that he allegedly called Romualdez to relay the supposed instruction.

“Tinawagan ko po si dating Speaker Martin Romualdez at nireport ko ang instructions ng Presidente to insert the P100 billion projects. At sinabi niya (Romualdez) sa akin, what the President wants, he gets,” the former partylist solon further averred.

Moments later, the same video that was sent to reporters was also posted on Co’s X’s verified account.

AGAINST THE CONSTITUTION

However, Co opted to reduce the P100 billion insertion under the 2025 budget of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) by half to avoid violating the 1987 Constitution which mandates that the education sector must receive the highest budgetary priority among all government departments and agencies. 

He particularly cited Article XIV, Section 5(5) of the 1987 Constitution states: “The State shall assign the highest budgetary priority to education and ensure that teaching will attract and retain its rightful share of the best available talents through adequate remuneration and other means of job satisfaction and fulfillment.”

The slash however didn’t sit well with Pangandaman whom he claimed confronted him over the phone regarding the reduction of the P100 billion budget insertion.

“Pagkatapos ng isang araw, tinawagan ako ni Secretary Menah at sinabi niya, ang mensahe ng Pangulo, ipasok ninyo ‘yan dahil pinangako na sa akin ni Speaker Martin ‘yan at hindi na pwedeng baguhin. Kumbaga, ang utos ng hari hindi pwedeng mabali,” said Co. 

FEARING FOR HIS LIFE

The former partylist congressman went on to claim that it was Romualdez who instructed him to leave the country — at least until such time that the flood control brouhaha simmers down.

Co, who has been placed under the International Police Organization’s (Interpol) blue notice on the request of the Department of Justice (DOJ), further insisted that the government is moving “heaven and earth” to keep him silent.

“Ginagamit ng administrasyon ang buong resources ng bansa para tumahimik ako. That he will shoot me if I will talk. Gagamitin ako bilang panakip butas sa kanilang kampanya laban sa korapsyon,” added Co

Interestingly, Co earlier agreed to attend the Senate blue ribbon committee hearing via video conference. His “zoom appearance” however didn’t materialize after its committee chairman Senator Panfilo Lacson dropped the plan.

ABSOLVING ROMUALDEZ

Far from his usual confrontational stance on the issue of the flood control scandal, the President recently uttered words which contradicted his previous statements.

According to Marcos, Romualdez is not included in the case referrals made by the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI). He, however, said that “If something else comes out, then he (Romualdez) might be answerable for something.”

During his latest State of the Nation Address (SONA), Marcos slammed the shamelessness of corrupt government officials and contractors after discovering ghost and sub-standard flood control projects.

Two months after his explosive SONA, Marcos said exposing the corruption and irregularities in flood control projects doesn’t involve politics.

“Why would I even start such a thing if somehow it’s for political advantage. The reason I brought it up and made it part of the national discourse was quite simply because this could not go on,” Marcos was quoted as saying in his podcast.

Christmas In Jail, Just for Minions

Rose de la Cruz
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Christmas In Jail, Just for Minions

NOTWITHSTANDING ITS power and influence, the Marcos administration seems to be on overdrive, pronouncing jail time those linked to the flood control scandal, as an earnest effort to decimate multi-sectoral protest rallies — involving religious groups.

Despite daily updates on the supposed “pre-Christmas developments,” doubts are raised whether or not investigation and prosecution would involve prominent legislators  from both the Senate and the House of Representatives, even political observers hinted at the possibility that contractors would be made into “sacrificial lambs if only to save the ass of the powers that may be.”

“Walang makukulong na congressman at senators dahil kaalyado nila. Puro contractors lang ang makukulong,” reads one of the most “reacted” comment on Facebook.

This will thus be the biggest test that the President will have to hurdle. He should make good on their pronouncements of Christmas in jail not just for contractors but big fish– among senators and congressmen. 

Short of that, the coming November 16 to 18 protest to be staged by the three sects might just succeed in toppling this administration.

ICI Report Card

The Independent Commission on Infrastructure– which continue to hold closed probe sessions despite public clamor for transparency and open sessions– said of the 421 validated “ghost” flood control projects in the country, it is prioritizing the investigation of 80 projects involving the top 15 contractors that were in the President’s SONA listing.

Underhanded and underfunded as it is, the ICI has tapped the help of the Armed Forces, the National Bureau of Investigation, the Ombudsman’s Office, the Department of Public Works and Highways and the Philippine National Police in conducting ocular inspections and forensic validation of supposed projects which had already been paid for but were found either of substandard and incomplete status or at worst, completely ghost projects.

The Senate meantime will resume on November 17 (Monday) the Blue Ribbon Committee with Sen. Panfilo Lacson heading it anew after being voted back to the committee.

The ICI held a command conference in Camp Crame with the abovementioned national agencies in order to speed up its corruption investigations on flood control projects implemented by the past officials of the DPWH in cahoots with contractors and their connections with legislators, cited as responsible for budget insertions and usage of unprogrammed funds.

  • The ICI hinted at focusing on the following construction firms:
  • Legacy Construction Corporation
  • Alpha & Omega Gen. Contractor & Development Corp.
  • St. Timothy Construction Corp.
  • QM Builders
  • EGB Construction Corp.
  • Topnotch Catalyst Builders Inc.
  • Centerways Construction and Development Inc.
  • Sunwest Inc.
  • Hi-Tone Construction & Development Corp.
  • Triple 8 Construction & Supply Inc.
  • Royal Crown Monarch Construction & Supplies Corp.
  • Wawao Builders
  • MG Samidan Construction
  • L.R. Tiqui Builders Inc.
  • Road Edge Trading & Development Services

Command Conference

Those who attended the command conference last Wednesday were: ICI Special Advisor Rodolfo Azurin Jr., AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., ICI Chair Andres Reyes Jr., DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon, and Acting PNP Chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.

“The ICI led discussions to align strategies for case validation, intelligence gathering, and prosecution,” the PNP post conference statement reads.

“The conference aimed to validate priority ‘ghost projects,’ expand investigation coverage nationwide, and streamline coordination among the inter-agency teams tasked with inspections, documentation, and eventual case filings,” it added.

Among those in attendance were ICI Chair Andres Reyes Jr., ICI Commissioner Rogelio Singson, ICI Special Advisor Rodolfo Azurin Jr., Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., Acting PNP Chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon.

The PNP reiterated its full commitment “to strengthening the investigative and intelligence efforts of the ICI and partner agencies.”

“Our police officers provide critical insights and support the building of strong cases, ensuring that every lead is pursued and every irregularity is thoroughly examined,” PNP public information chief Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño said in the statement.

The PNP previously met with the ICI at the latter’s office in Taguig City last October, where it clarified its role in the investigation as providing “technical support in the areas of engineering verification, forensic validation and information systems development.”

Azurin, before the command conference began, said the ICI will be looking into infrastructure projects in the Ilocos Region and Cebu province (badly hit by TS Tino and Super Typhoon Uwan) in the coming days.

Dizon later announced that a first batch of cases will be filed at the Sandiganbayan against more than 40 individuals for non-bailable offenses in the anomalous flood control projects.

Dizon noted that resigned Ako Bicol partylist Rep. Zaldy Co, former Bulacan 1st District Engr. Henry Alcantara, and private contractor couple Sarah and Curlee Discaya will be among the first to be imprisoned over the scandal. 

Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla mentioned that former Speaker Martin Romualdez and former Senate President Chiz Escudero would soon be covered by such an investigation, along with more high profile politicians.

Last October, Dizon stated that the 421 validated ghost projects were among the 8,000 flood control projects inspected nationwide. Field inspectors of anomalous projects were assisted by the PNP, AFP and the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (previously NEDA). 

New BIR Commissioner

Perhaps part of the Marcos administration’s strategy to fortify people’s trust in his leadership was the surprising replacement of Internal Revenue Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr. by Finance Undersecretary Charlito Martin Mendoza, an appointment that shocked everyone as Lumagui has consistently been overperforming by exceeding revenue targets.

The surprise appointment caused speculations that the steadfast filing of tax evasion cases against those involved in the flood control mess by Lumagui could have prompted the palace to go slow, as this might unduly affect those in government that the palace has links with.

Some even say that Lumagui might discover those involved in the mess who have somehow supported those in high places in government.

Mendoza’s edge is that as Usec for Revenue Operations Group of DoF, he helped the operations of BIR and Bureau of Customs meet their revenue goals.  

Mendoza also worked as district collector for the BOC Port of Cebu, where he led the port to achieve record-breaking revenue collection and significant border protection milestones. The Port of Cebu, under him,  became the first customs collection district to have its main port and all subports ISO 9001:2015 certified.

Before joining the government, Mendoza had a thriving legal career, working as a founding partner of the Palafox Patriarca Romero and Mendoza Law Firm and an associate lawyer at the Angara Abello Concepcion Regala and Cruz Law Offices (ACCRALAW) and the Suarez and Narvasa Law Firm. He also served as a law professor and a Pre-Bar and Mandatory Continuing Legal Education lecturer.

Mendoza placed third in the 2004 Philippine Bar Exam after earning his Bachelor of Laws degree from San Beda University. He is also a licensed Geodetic Engineer, having earned a degree in Geodetic Engineering from the University of the Philippines. (PNA)

Quiet Storms: Suicide, Corruption & A Generation’s Reckoning

Cheryl Luis True
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Quiet Storms: Suicide, Corruption & A Generation’s Reckoning

IN THE PHILIPPINES , we might be used to typhoons, floods, and disasters. But what if the real storm is silent, carried in hearts rather than rain clouds? Young lives are ending in despair. Meanwhile, massive funds meant to protect communities from floods are vanishing into thin air. These aren’t unrelated crises—they’re deeply connected.

Across the country, mentalhealth warnings are flashing. People grappling with trauma, anxiety, financial strain, social pressures are feeling like they’re drowning. And it’s not just their environment that’s failed them—it’s the system they trusted to keep them safe.

Consider this: While infrastructure meant to buffer floods collapses because of alleged corruption, trust in institutions is crumbling. Citizens see projects that were promised but never delivered. Ghost floodcontrol works. Funds siphoned off. Officials and contractors accused of turning public protection into private profit. The result: when water rises, when disaster hits, people are not just physically vulnerable—they’re psychologically vulnerable too.

For young people today, the ground beneath them feels unstable. Climate change, economic uncertainty, disasters—they see the warning signs. Add to that the sense that the officials in charge aren’t acting in their interest, and it’s no wonder hopelessness is creeping in. When infrastructure fails you, when your future feels shaky, despair finds fertile ground.

There is a wakeup call in this moment. The socalled “threefold society”—where government, civil society organizations, and the business sector work hand in hand—cannot remain a slogan. If our government fails to build real protection, if CSOs can’t amplify the vulnerable voices, and if businesses don’t demand accountability and invest in resilience, then every thread of our social safety net unravels.

We must treat mental health like infrastructure—because it is. And we must treat public service spending like moral infrastructure—because it also is. It’s not enough to build walls and dykes. We must rebuild trust. Because without trust, no wall holds, no service stands, no future feels safe.

Here’s the ruthless truth: when young people give up, it is not always just because of personal demons. It is because the system promised something—hope, protection, progress—but failed to deliver. And when faith in the system cracks, the soul cracks too.

If you feel like you’re drowning, know this: you are not alone. The undercurrents are real. But the response must be louder. It must be collective. The government must stand accountable, CSOs must stand vigilant, businesses must stand responsible—and citizens must stand together.

Because if the next wave comes and we’re still unprotected—not just physically but emotionally—then the real tragedy isn’t the flood. It’s that we let the belief in safety, in justice, in each other wash away. And that cannot stand.

Junket Over Mandate: Frasco, 7 Cebu Mayors In Trouble 

Lily Reyes
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Junket Over Mandate: Frasco, 7 Cebu Mayors In Trouble 

WHILE A TOP official is blabbering on the possibility of sanctioning government officials who chose to fly abroad over looking after their constituents, a private lawyer wasted no time and filed administrative and criminal complaints against the junketeers.

In a complaint filed before the Visayas Ombudsman, lawyer Julito Añora Jr. particularly cited Cebu 5th District Rep. Duke Frasco and seven mayors  who travelled outside the country despite the travel ban imposed by the Department of Interior and Local Government amid the arrival of Typhoon Tino.

Aside from Frasco, named respondents in his complaint are Mayor Aljew Fernando Frasco of the Municipality of Liloan; Mayor Avis Ginoo-Monleon of the Municipality of Catmon; Mayor Alfredo Arquillano Jr. of the Municipality of San Francisco; Mayor German Solante of the Municipality of Tudela; Mayor Edgar Rama of the Municipality of Poro, Mayor Manuel Santiago of the Municipality of Pilar, and Mayor Felijur Quiño of the Municipality of Compostela.

Añora accused the officials of violating Republic Act 10121 (Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act), the Local Government Code, the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards, and Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.

“The casualties speak for themselves… These numbers speak about the inefficiency of our local chief executives,” said Añora.

Records obtained from the DILG showed that the respondents filed for a travel authority to go to London from November 1 onwards.

“They shouldn’t have left. The advisory of PAGASA was October 27… they could have at least cancelled their trip,” said Añora.

Interestingly, not all Cebu mayors were lured to travel as Borbon Mayor Nico Dotillos who initially formed part of the entourage, opted to drop the overseas travel. 

“I did this on my own volition, I filed this on my own judgements because I’ve seen the incompetence of these public officials. I mourned with all of the victims,” he added.

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