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Divided Yet Again

Raymund Narag
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Divided Yet Again

THE COMMENTARIES AFTER the September 21 mobilizations are already pulling us away from the real issue: corruption. If we let them, they will sap our spirit and scatter our resolve. 

We will once again find ourselves in the familiar stalemate—loud, angry, divided, and yet unable to move forward. And the only winners will be the corrupt, who, as always, will be left untouched.

ENDLESS CIRCLES

The first set of commentaries spins around the divide between progressives, BBM loyalists, and the DDS supporters. 

The discussion circles endlessly: who has the legitimate call, who should lead the rallies, who should be shunned. 

The accusations fly: the DDS cannot be trusted, for they only want to install Sara who is equally corrupt; the BBM loyalists cannot be trusted, for they only want to shield a president who presided over this massive corruption; the progressives cannot be trusted, for they only want to topple government and replace it with communism. The result is suspicion, hatred, paralysis. We are all divided by ulterior motives, and the corrupt laugh all the way to the bank.

“[T]his is not about partisanship. It is about crime. It is about thieves in barong, stealing from hospitals, from classrooms, from coffins, from our very flood control.”

UNENDING BLAMING

The second set of commentaries is about the urban poor, the young, who joined the rallies and turned violent. 

All three groups disowned them. All three groups accused each other of secretly funding and manipulating them. 

The blaming is unending. 

But in the margins, a class analysis emerges: that the violence of the poor is an organic movement, a raw response to the endless violence of the elite establishment. Some say it is justified. Some say it is inevitable. But again, the commentaries distract us from the real issue.

THE REAL ISSUE

And the real issue of the day is corruption. Anyone who has paid taxes to this government only to see their money vanish in bogus projects has the right to protest. Progressives, BBM loyalists, DDS supporters—it does not matter. 

Anyone cheated by the government, whether rich or poor, educated or uneducated, elite or masses, has the right to march, to shout, to demand change.

We need a movement that captures this organic sentiment—that regardless of political affiliation, class, or status, everyone is welcome. Because corruption cuts across colors, families, and factions. 

CROOKS IN BARONG

As I said before, this is not about partisanship. It is about crime. It is about thieves in barong, stealing from hospitals, from classrooms, from coffins, from our very flood control.

We must push relentlessly for the investigation, prosecution, arrest, and conviction of anyone who dipped their hands in the public coffers. No exemptions. No sacred cows. We cannot be selective. Our loyalty must not be to party or clan, but to the nation.

If we continue to let ulterior motives guide our struggle, if we allow partisan loyalties to outweigh our call for genuine change, we will lose steam, we will lose direction, we will lose the moment. And the corrupt, yet again, will win.

WHY LET THEM WIN?

And let us be clear: if the corrupt win, it will not be because they were strong. It will be because we were foolish. Because while they were stealing, we were bickering. Because while they were plundering, we were pointing fingers. Because while they were laughing, we were tearing each other apart.

Corruption does not care what color you wear. It does not care if you shout “BBM,” “DDS,” or “Progressive.” It only cares that you remain divided, distracted, defeated.

So let us stick to the issue. Or else we might as well hand the keys of the treasury back to the thieves, and clap as they rob us blind.

Bordering On Vigilance And Terrorism

Fernan Angeles
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Bordering On Vigilance And Terrorism

DAYS AFTER THE biggest protest action since the historic EDSA People Power Revolution in 1986, the government is going deep into one of the groups which took part in the violent demonstration held near the Malacañang Palace in Manila.

Citing government data, close to 244 individuals — including 60 minors, were arrested by the Manila Police District’s (MPD).

Under the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006, children above 15 years old but below 18 are exempted from criminal liability, unless they acted with discernment.

PAID MOBSTERS

In what appears more like a sweeping statement, Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla claimed that those arrested are no more than paid mobsters.

“Mukhang lumalabas organized group. Ang bayad nila sa mga bata ay 3,000 [pesos] each. May mga videos pa kami na pinapakita nila mga pera nila at niyayabang sa social media,” Remulla was quoted as saying in an interview.

The September 21 protests, embarking on calls to end systemic corruption in the government, were held in several parts of the country with the National Capital Region as focal points — Luneta Park in Manila and the People Power Monument along EDSA in Quezon City.

However, a small crowd converged near Malacañang Palace, where protesters burned the tires of a parked truck and later clashed with policemen.

ANONYMOUS PH

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) on its part claimed that a group which calls itself Anonymous PH instigated the violent protest rally near Malacañang.

According to DICT Secretary Henry Aguda, Anonymous PH is a group of “hacktivists” believed to be behind 1.4 million attempted breach attempts during the protests. 

Of this number, Anonymous PH was only able to deface 19 websites — mostly belonging to local government units.

Aside from calls across the social media, Aguda that the DICT had discovered and recorded an online chatter that included instructions on how to make Molotov cocktails and coordination links shared through Facebook Live.

“Nakita namin na nag-organize sila sa web, tapos na-translate into violence. Kaya nga, yung word na terrorism is aptly associated with them.”

BEYOND 36 HOURS

In the Philippines, arbitrary detention refers to the unlawful confinement of a person for more than 36 hours without proper judicial authority.

Under the Revised Penal Code, arrest made without a warrant issued by a court of law qualifies under the category of arbitrary arrest, if the detained person is not brought before the court within 36 hours. 

While charges have already been filed, it wasn’t certain though whether or not MPD was able to commence inquest proceedings within the prescribed period.

Those custody were slapped with violation of the Public Assembly Act of 1985 (Batas Pambansa 880), illegal assembly (Article 146 of the Revised Penal Code or RPC), assault against a person in authority and their agent (Article 148 of the RPC), and resistance and disobedience (Article 151 of the RPC).

ICI Should Also Probe Escudero, Bersamin, Romualdez, COA 

Rose de la Cruz
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ICI Should Also Probe Escudero, Bersamin, Romualdez, COA 

THE ATENEO SCHOOL of Governance asked the Independent Commission on Infrastructure to also investigate the huge budget cuts and diversions that took place in since 2023 without any protestation and intervention from the executive.

In a statement, the school urged the commission’s inclusion probe of former Senate President Francis Escudero, former Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, the Senate and House chairpersons and vice chairpersons of the finance and appropriations committees and their technical staff, as well as “little president” Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin and members of the Development Budget Coordinating Committee, Politiko reported.

PUBLIC OUTRAGE

This, amid a public outrage over rampant corruption scandal that is rocking the country, as shown in the numerous rallies in major cities and in the EDSA People Power Monument, Luneta and Camp Aguinaldo– among divergent economic, political, religious and social classes last Sept. 21, the 53rd anniversary of Martial Law by the late dictator, Ferdinand Marcos Sr.

It also insisted on a closer look into the Commission on Audit “for its failure to ensure responsible use of public funds.”

Its statement bore the title “Complicity in Corruption: Ateneo Calls out OP, House, Senate over ‘Exponential Budget Spike since 2016.”

The school earlier flagged a huge budget allocation for the flood management program of the Department of Public Works and Highways under the 2025 spending plan. The DPWH budget has so far surpassed the budget for education in violation of the Constitutional mandate.

“Greater role and discretion are given to politicians in the selection of projects, beneficiaries and amounts of assistance and visibility in the distribution of the same. Social services are headed towards becoming a matter of utang na loob, not a matter of right.”

POLITICIANS’ DISCRETION

“We therefore ask – Are flood control projects (which constitute 22 percent of the DPWH budget) more important than addressing the 160,000 classroom backlog and the dilapidated condition of 70 percent of existing classrooms?” the school asked.

The group also sounded the alarm over major cuts to agencies like DSWD, PhilHealth, Health, and Education, while billions were diverted to cash dole outs such as AKAP, AICS, MAIFP, and TUPAD.

In 2025, they said, the budget for these programs totaled ₱130 billion. Greater role and discretion are given to politicians in the selection of projects, beneficiaries and amounts of assistance and visibility in the distribution of the same. Social services are headed towards becoming a matter of utang na loob, not a matter of right. 

BALLOONING BUDGET

Filipino taxpayers are footing a rapidly growing bill to sustain the country’s top leaders, with the Office of the President’s budget ballooning by 461 percent since 2016, according to Ateneo’s report published by Bilyonaryo.

“Why was there an exponential increase in the budget of these agencies? How much of these are under oversight scrutiny, and how much are confidential funds?” With this, the Ateneo group challenged the administration to get serious “in weeding out corruption … (and) carry out an institutional scrutiny up to the highest echelon of power.”

The presidential office will cost ₱15.8 billion this year, up from ₱2.8 billion at the end of the Aquino administration in 2016.

That translates to ₱43.4 million per day in taxpayer funding — a level critics say underscores how governance has become more expensive while household incomes lag inflation.

The rise is not confined to the presidency. The House of Representatives’ budget has jumped 280 percent since 2016 to ₱33.7 billion, while the Senate’s allocation nearly tripled to ₱13.9 billion.

The Office of the Vice President grew more modestly, up 47 percent to ₱733 million.

Critics say the exponential growth in funding for Malacañang, the Senate and the House squeezes resources for essential programs in health, education and social protection.

The report also flagged ₱17.3 billion diverted to the House, ₱5 billion to the President’s office, and ₱1 billion to the Senate — raising questions about oversight and the opaque use of confidential and intelligence funds.

Telltale Signs of Failure

Tracy Cabrera
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Telltale Signs of Failure

I ought to have died at Waterloo. 

                               — French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, after his defeat to British Field Marshall and First Duke of Wellington Arthur Wellesley 

WHEN GOOD PEOPLE no longer want to serve under you, what does it tell you? 

It has been happening under the vaunted administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Credible men and women whom he thought would do good for the country and the Filipino people are apparently seeing through the facade and the mask our prideful Ilocano leader has worn off to show his true face and character—that of someone failing in his job. 

As some would say, the son of the late strongman and namesake, has ignobly showed no sign of success in fighting corruption. Three years have passed since he took oath and now more than a trillion pesos of public funds have been lost as the corrupt under his government pocketed more money than they could carry in their luxurious vehicles. 

So, why are the good men and women under Marcos Jr.’s administration resigning from their posts? 

I am not talking about those villainous officials in the Department of Public Works and Highways who have relinquished their position because they are now being scrutinized for their involvement in irregularities in the agency’s flood control projects. 

Nor is it about our beleaguered House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez who allegedly received 35 suitcases of ill-gotten money from kickbacks in government infrastructure development programs of his relative at the helm of the Palace. 

The latest to resign is our dear friend Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong. Before him, it was another good friend, former Judge Jaime Santiago, who tendered his irrevocable resignation as director of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). 

Mayor Magalong resigned as special adviser to the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI)—the ad hoc fact-finding commission created by Pres. Marcos Jr., tasked with investigating flood control and other government projects implemented from 2015 onwards. 

In a letter addressed to the chief executive, he said, “The Palace’s pronouncements concerning my designation, which run contrary to the terms of my appointment, have undermined the role and mandate entrusted to me.”

He added that “combined with circumstances that already cast doubt on the independence of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure, it has become clear that (his) continued service is no longer tenable.” 

Magalong likewise maintained that he has not neglected, nor will he ever neglect, his main responsibility to the people of Baguio, “whose welfare and interests remain at the core of my public service.”

Accordingly, Magalong’s resignation is said to stem from Marcos’ order for a review of Magalong’s role in the ICI to determine whether the latter has any conflict of interest in the super body.

Presidential Communications Office undersecretary Claire Castro clarified at a briefing: “The President said that his (Magalong’s) case will be referred to the legal team to determine where he may be included, or where he should be properly inserted, so that the independence of the ICI will not be compromised and there will be no violation of any law.”

Questions about Magalong’s role at the ICI arose from a tennis court project built by the Discaya-owned St. Gerrard Construction Company in Baguio City. This ₱110-million project was awarded in 2022 to Saint Gerrard Construction Company, one of nine firms owned by contractor couple Sarah and Curlee Discaya, who are both under investigation for alleged involvement in anomalous flood-control projects.

Furthermore, labor groups also recently called out Magalong’s role in the ICI, stressing that he cannot wear two hats—as Baguio City Mayor and as special adviser to the Commission. 

Whatever may be the reason, what we see here is something deeper. It appears no good general would follow a commander who wants a Pyrrhic victory in battle or a Napoleonic defeat like Waterloo. 

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

Protests Vs. Corruption

Boni Macaranas
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Protests Vs. Corruption

SEPTEMBER 21, 2025 marked the 52nd Anniversary of the illegal declaration of Martial Law by the father of the current president Bongbong Marcos – Dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos, Sr. 

A fitting commemoration by the Filipino people of this dark period of the country’s history was the nationwide mass mobilizations carried out on this day, calling for an end to corruption under this current administration of president Bongbong Marcos and VP Sara Duterte, and that of VP Sara’s father, former president Rodrigo Roa Duterte (now detained by the International Criminal Court, awaiting trial for his crimes against humanity, for the killing of about 30,000 Filipinos, including youths). 

WIDESPREAD CPRRUPTION

The mass rallies demanded the apprehension and conviction of certified corrupt senators, congressmen, government officials/personnel of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), private contractors, as well as other corrupt officials in other government agencies.

The mass rallies by Church bishops/priests/pastors/leaders, and their parishioners, military/police active and retired officials, political parties and countless people’s organizations made an urgent demand for president Bongbong Marcos and VP Sara Duterte to immediately stop the widespread corruption committed and being committed under their administration. 

Also, in their mass mobilizations, the Filipino people called for the investigation of the massive corruption committed by the administration of VP Sara’s father, former president Rodrigo Roa Duterte (currently detained in a cell under the International Criminal Court (ICC) in the Hague, Netherlands, awaiting trial for the killings of about 30,000 Filipinos, including youths). 

“The rallyists demand: ‘CONVICT the guilty, JAIL them and force them to RETURN the money and properties they acquired illegally using the money they stole from the Filipino people’.”

CONVICT THE GUILTY

The rallyists demand: “CONVICT the guilty, JAIL them and force them to RETURN the money and properties they acquired illegally using the money they stole from the Filipino people.”

Indeed, these mass actions served especially to educate and enlighten the Gen Z generation, the generation of their “Kuyas Ates,” and the current generation of children and youths, about the rapes, tortures, murders, mass slaughters, other atrocities, plunders and various crimes of the dictator, Ferdinand Edralin Marcos, under his brutal authoritarian regime. 

The despot was supported, with canine loyalty, by his defense secretary Juan Ponce Enrile, AFP Chief Gen. Fabian Ver, and cronies like the Escuderos, Disinis, Benedictos, Cayetanos, and others. 

Dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos exploited and oppressed his fellow Filipinos for more than 15 years, by suppressing press freedom, and fully utilizing his private army, his attack dogs then – the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and the forerunner of the present PNP – the Metrocom and the Philippine Constabulary (PC), which mercilessly served as the torturers, rapists slaughterers and killers of more than 200,000 Filipinos, as researched by the government agency, Human Rights Violations Victims’ Memorial Commission (HRVVMC). 

ILLEGAL TAGGING

Incidentally, under president Bongbong’s and VP Sara’s watch today, illegal detentions, extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances have been ongoing, given the illegal red-tagging of reformist activists and groups by the notorious government agency, National Task Force to End Local Communist Conflict.

More significantly, the September 21, 2025 nationwide mass protests against corruption under the administration of president Bongbong Marcos and VP Sara Duterte, widely exposed and highlighted their mismanagement, if not their traitorous misgovernance, enabling corrupt practices by senators, congressmen, AFP/PNP officers and other public officials in various government agencies, down to the level of LGUs.Understandably, the people are demanding investigations of suspected personalities involved in corruption, and to be held accountable soonest, under the rule of law. 

Also expected for investigations are the officials and other personalities involved in corruption  under the murderous leadership  of the current ICC detainee, former mayor/president Rodrigo Roa Duterte. 

No wonder, the people have been crying out loud for so long: “NEVER AGAIN, NEVER FORGET!” “MARCOS PANAGUTIN, DUTERTE SINGILIN!”

Never Ending Saga

Luchie Aclan Arguelles
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Never Ending Saga

DESPITE THE CREATION of an independent commission tasked to dig deeper into the anomalous infrastructure projects, the government’s so-called advocacy against corruption has yet to yield results that would somehow appease public outrage.

Not a single centavo has been recovered. Not one crook hauled behind bars. Not one concrete step put in place to pin down corruption. 

Worse, the people are made to watch what looks more like a never ending saga embarking on pure talks but absolutely no walk — finger pointing and grandstanding.

At the turn of events, names were floated by no less than the Department of Justice. According to Justice Secretary Crispin Remulla, cases would be filed against 21 personalities, most of whom are character actors taking on cameo roles and a few deemed as “sacrificial lambs.

Conspicuously missing are the main cast – oh yes, big names which may trigger political unrest — and probably those who amassed most of the stolen public funds.

More than the cinematic turn of events are persistent efforts primarily designed to kill the issue by trying to create a bigger one.

The Magalong resignation, inclusion of crooks in the the witness protection, coup d’é·tat, class and work suspensions — not one of these worked as the Filipino people remain focused and eagerly waiting for real action.

Maybe literally dragging Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co into a private jet so he too would be compelled to face the allegations, and hopefully sing a tune that would lead the ICI to the doorsteps of the main man — and the most evil one.

Feeling Stuck: The Hesitation Habit

Vivien Mangalindan
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Feeling Stuck: The Hesitation Habit

DID YOU EVER feel hesitation quietly holding you back? It whispers “wait,” and suddenly nothing moves forward. Faced with uncertainty, we freeze, unsure of what to do next. 

The Back Story 

Before you know it, hours, days, even years slip by. That’s the triple trap: indecisiveness, indecision, and inaction.

  • Indecisiveness. Struggling to choose between options. (You keep juggling choices without landing on one.)
  • Indecision. Overthinking to the point of paralysis. (Your brain’s stuck in the “what if” loop.)
  • Inaction. Doing nothing at all. (No choice, no step, no progress.)

The Juggling Act: Indecisiveness
Indecisiveness feels like juggling balls you never intend to catch. You keep them in the air, convincing yourself you’re “thinking it through.” In reality? You’re delaying.


Example: You’re on Netflix. Forty-five minutes later, you’re still scrolling, still deciding what to watch. Guess what? That was a whole episode of your favorite show wasted.

The Endless Replay: Indecision
Indecision is when your brain becomes a broken record.

  • “What if I pick wrong?”
  • “What if there’s a better option?”
  • “What if, what if, what if?”

It’s exhausting — like pacing the same hallway because you’re afraid the next door might not lead where you want. Newsflash: there’s always another door.

The Dead Stop: Inaction
This is the grand finale — the freeze. Inaction is when nothing happens. 

  • You don’t choose
  • You don’t move
  • You don’t grow

It’s like pressing pause on life and never hitting play again.

Why It’s A Trap
The danger isn’t just the wasted time — it’s the wasted momentum. While you’re stuck hesitating, others are making imperfect choices, learning, adjusting, and moving ahead. 

  • Progress beats perfection every single time.

Simple Fixes 
Pick fast, adjust later. 

  • Most choices aren’t permanent. Decide, then refine as you go.

Set a decision timer. 

  • Five minutes for small stuff, five days for big stuff. After that? Lock it in.

Take one tiny action. 

  • Movement creates clarity. 

Tiny steps count — even a slow walk beats standing still. You’ll figure out if it’s right once you’re rolling.

Reality Check
Here’s the kicker: 

  • Not deciding is still a decision. 

And usually, it’s the worst one, because it defaults to nothing. At least when you choose, you move.

Tips And Techniques 
Think of one thing you’ve been sitting on — a call you didn’t make, a project you didn’t start, a decision you’ve postponed. 

  • Give yourself a deadline. Then get unstuck.

Doesn’t matter if it’s perfect, just matters that it’s done.

Remember: Life’s too short to stay stuck on pause. Hit play, step forward, and keep moving. 

Round One: ICI Wants Zaldy Co Charged

Tracy Cabrera
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Round One: ICI Wants Zaldy Co Charged

THE INDEPENDENT COMMISSION for Infrastructure (ICI) draws first blood, following the recommendation warranting the filing of charges against Ako Bicol partylist Congressman Zaldy Co over the P289.5-million flood control project in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro.

In its initial interim report to the Office of the Ombudsman, the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) aptly described the infrastructure project — construction of a 12-meter pile along the Mag-Asawang Tubig River, as “anomalous.”

Based on the 32-page report, the ICI asked the Ombudsman to file a string of charges including graft, malversation and falsification against the partylist congressman who served as chairman of the powerful Appropriations Committee during the 19th Congress.

Aside from Co, ICI also tagged 13 Department of Public Works and Highways officials over their alleged participation in the dike project.

PROJECT SPECS

On scrutiny, the ICI noted that the steel sheet piles installed in the said dike measured only about 2.5 to 3 meters in length despite the contract’s detailed engineering design requiring 12-meter piles.

“If applied across the project, this discrepancy could potentially result in public losses estimated at over PHP63 million,” the ICI pointed out in its report. 

The Commission likewise cited apparent deficiencies in documentation supporting progress billings.

“Several payments were approved despite missing records and, in some instances, identical photographs were reused to justify separate billings,” it said.

“These circumstances may indicate lapses in project verification. Certifications by DPWH officials attesting to compliance with specifications and workmanship thus appear questionable and require further investigation,” it added. 

ZALDY’S SUNWEST

The ICI further disclosed that Co was named for alleged “receipt of unwarranted benefits in relation to construction projects” of government contractor firm Sunwest Incorporated owned by the resigned sectoral representative.

Co had earlier claimed that he had divested his interests in the company, but according to reports, he still has potential beneficial ownership in the company. 

The Commission, however, underscored that additional evidence is needed to establish any definitive connection.

“At this stage, the findings remain preliminary. The ICI has recommended that the Ombudsman evaluate whether potential violations may exist under the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, Malversation and Falsification provisions of the Revised Penal Code, the Government Procurement Reform Act, and the Code of Conduct for Public Officials and Employees,” the ICI clarified.

MORE EVIDENCE

At this juncture, it disclosed that “(ICI) will be submitting further evidence, within 15 days” while emphasizing that it does not make categorical findings of guilt and responsibility for determining liability rests with the proper authorities. 

To clarify, the Commission explained that its interim report is “intended to assist in ensuring accountability in infrastructure projects and in protecting the integrity of public funds.”

Zaldy Co Resigns As Congressman

Rose de la Cruz
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Zaldy Co Resigns As Congressman

FROM ALL INDICATIONS, Ako Bicol partylist Congressman Zaldy Co is not keen on the idea of flying back home after topping the list of government officials being dragged into the trillion-peso flood control scandal.

Coinciding with the expiration of the deadline set by the House of Representatives for his return, Co, whom reports claim to be somewhere in Spain, submitted a letter of “irrevocable resignation” to House Speaker Faustino Dy III.

According to Co, he tendered his resignation amid “real, direct, grave and imminent to the lives of my family and me, and the evident denial of my right to due process of law.”

BLUE NOTICE

Previously, Secretary Crispin Remulla of the Department Justice admitted that the government is already coordinating with  the International Police Organization (Interpol) for the issuance of a Blue Notice against the partylist congressman.

Interpol notices are international requests for cooperation or alerts allowing police in member countries to share critical crime-related information.

In Co’s case, the DOJ requested a Blue Notice, an investigative tool that neither requires member states to make an arrest. 

A notable blue notice Interpol example could be a case involving persons of interest in cases such as fraud, corruption, money laundering, or other financial crimes that often span multiple jurisdictions.

HUGE KICKBACKS

During congressional inquiries conducted by both the Senate and the House of Representatives, resource persons tagged Co behind multiple issues, including budget insertions, ghost (and substandard) projects, and kickbacks delivered in multiple suitcases.

However, Co insisted that allegations against him are all politically fabricated.

In his three-page resignation letter, Co told Dy that he would answer all the “malicious and baseless claims against him” particularly by Rep. Tobias Tiangco before the House ethics committee.

He cited as reason for resigning the “real, direct, grave and imminent to the lives of my family and me, and the evident denial of my right to due process of law.”

DRAGGING CONGRESS 

According to the “resigned” partylist congressman, he’s neither the mastermind, nor part of what Tiangco referred to as a well-entrenched syndicate in Congress.

He likewise quelled allegations of last minute insertions and realignments in the General Appropriations Act during his stint as chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations.

Co said it was “improbable, if not absolutely impossible that I on my own could enter supposed insertions without the knowledge of both Chambers of Congress, which was evidently signed into law by the President.”

“The validity of the 2025 GAA is subject of a Supreme Court proceeding and a case before the Office of the Ombudsman,” he explained.

FLAUNTING WEALTH

He also denied “indulging in extravagant and ostentatious display of wealth in the eye of the public.” 

However, screenshots and URL links proved otherwise as no less than her niece, a lifestyle vlogger, flaunted the extravagant lifestyle and wealth of the Co family. 

Eventually the Department of Transportation (DOTr) was able to act on the air assets acquired by Co, which had been used for the jetsetting of the family to different parts of the world. These air assets, the DOTr added, were used by the Co family and limited “circle of friends and business associates” in visiting a private island that he owns. 

He also debunked the need for submitting a medical certificate when applying for a leave of absence, which he had been practicing since 2024 for medical check ups abroad.

“As in the past, my leaves and travel orders have been approved by the House of Representatives without the need for a medical certificate,” he said, adding that even without his physical presence, he had been doing public service remotely.

Public Warned Vs. Weapons of Disinformation

Tracy Cabrera
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Public Warned Vs. Weapons of Disinformation

FROM RED-TAGGER to rumor-monger would be an understatement to describe a little-known minion closely identified with the previous administration.

According to former presidential adviser Jose Antonio Goitia, the latest tirade hurled against Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong by a self-professed reforms activist Jeffrey Celiz — also known as Ka Eric, is no more than an effort to sow confusion.

He particularly took a swipe at Ka Eric’s claim that Magalong resigned due to pressure from President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. — “such claims are weapons of disinformation primarily designed to distort the truth and erode public trust.” 

DUBIOUS RECORD

“And especially coming from someone like Celiz, whose track record is riddled with lies, these pronouncements can never hold the truth because they are falsehoods covering Celiz’s personal political agenda,” he added.

A civic leader serving as chairman emeritus of Alyansa ng Bantay sa Kapayapaan at Demokrasya (ABKD), Goitia described Celiz as an avid fan and supporter of the Davao Death Squad (DDS).

Interestingly Ka Eric first gained prominence over alleged links to illegal drug trade during the previous administration. After he was linked to drug activities in Iloilo City, he fled abroad and went incognito.

From nowhere, Celiz — for the nth time — took the centerstage.

WRONG MISTAKE

Goitia disclosed the truth contradicting Celiz’s allegation: “Mayor Magalong himself explained that he stepped down to protect the integrity of the anti-corruption fight. That was his personal and principled choice.” 

“Ka Eric’s version that the President ordered Magalong to stop an investigation or that he refused to meet in Malacañan is pure invention. The President never gave such an order,” the civil leader noted.

“These lies are crafted to deceive and destabilize,” averred Goitia who also leads People’s Alliance for Democracy and Reforms (PADER), Liga Independencia Pilipinas (LIPI), and Filipinos Do Not Yield (FDNY) Movement.

According to Goitia, Celiz has a history of peddling unverified stories and wild accusations, often without evidence.

RUMOR PEDDLER

“This is not the first time Ka Eric has tried to stir controversy by spreading rumors dressed as revelations. Time and again, he has built his notoriety by making reckless claims that collapse under scrutiny,” an obviously pissed off Goitia said.

“His track record shows a pattern of exploiting the people’s fears and frustrations, not of providing truth. He is not a whistle blower (but) a fabricator.”

Goitia also dismissed the sensational claim that Magalong “snubbed” the President: “The Office of the President is not a gossip arena. To spin stories about supposed refusals is childish and disrespectful,” he said. 

“Mayor Magalong is a man of integrity. His decision deserves respect, not to be twisted into cheap drama by people who thrive on scandal.”

DRAGGING AFP

He condemned Ka Eric’s attempt to drag the Armed Forces into political intrigue.

“Let me be clear: it is reckless to use the AFP as props in lies and speculation. Our soldiers have one sacred duty to defend the Republic under civilian authority. To spread rumors that they are restless or plotting is an insult to their honor.”

Goitia finds Celiz’s statement as false, divisive and dangerous to the very least.

“It plants fear where there should be trust, and it weakens the very institution that safeguards our democracy. Those who tarnish the dignity of our men and women in uniform with baseless stories should be held accountable.”

Goitia stressed that while freedom of expression is protected, deliberate falsehoods do not fall under its protection.

DISTORTED NOTION

“Freedom of speech is not freedom to lie. Ka Eric and those like him may think they are just exercising their right to talk, but when words are built on lies and meant to destabilize, that is not democracy. That is sabotage, and sabotage must never be excused as liberty.”

Goitia ended with a direct appeal to the people.

“Filipinos deserve truth, not hysteria. President Marcos has led with patience, prudence, and integrity. He continues to respect the law even when critics try to twist the narrative against him.” 

“We must not allow Ka Eric’s disinformation to divide us or erode trust in our institutions. Rumors fade, but the truth and the Republic will endure. Unity behind the President, not hysteria from rumor-mongers, is what will protect our democracy,” he quipped.

Mayors Take A Stand, Vouch Magalong’s Integrity

Tracy Cabrera
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Mayors Take A Stand, Vouch Magalong’s Integrity

IT’S NOT VERY often that local chief executives from various parts of the country come in droves and stand on the same ground.

In a statement farmed out to the members of the media, members of the so-called Mayors For Good Governance (M4GG) reaffirmed what looks more like an unequivocal support to Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong whom they described as a “man of integrity.”

The statement was issued amid reports that “conflict of interest” hounding Magalong compelled President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to apply pressure on the retired police officer turned politician.

According to M4GG, Magalong, who has resigned as special adviser of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), came clean and left the ICI without a trace of corruption.

“Mayor Magalong cannot be bought, bullied or swayed by favors or threats,” reads part of the statement signed by over 60 local chief executives, citing the former ICI special adviser’s compass anchored on truth.” 

The Baguio City mayor left earlier today for a much-needed break in South Korea after resigning from the ICI.

He however gave an assurance that he won’t be remiss in his responsibilities as local chief executive of Baguio City.

The group founded by Dumaguete City mayor Felipe Antonio ‘Ipe’ Remollo underscored the former police official’s accomplishments from being chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP)’s Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and as a public servant.

“As Mayor of Baguio, he has acted decisively to regulate overdevelopment, protect the city’s environment and confront corruption across Baguio and the Cordillera, always placing accountability above personal and political gain,” M4GG said.

“At the national level, he led the Board of Inquiry on the Mamasapano tragedy with independence, rejecting attempts to alter the final report. He courageously exposed the “ninja cops” controversy, prioritizing principle over personal or institutional loyalty,” the statement further reads.

The group reiterated “complete confidence” in Magalong, asserting that the mayor is “living proof that leaders of character still exist: those who put people above politics, justice above self-interest, and service above ambition.”

Hooligans Assailed Over Destructive Criticism

Tracy Cabrera
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Hooligans Assailed Over Destructive Criticism

CRITICISM IS A sign of a healthy democracy. However, it should never be used for sinister purposes like inducing the people to anarchy as a mechanism to topple the government.

Reacting to the latest round of criticisms hurled against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., civic organizations responded to allegations raised by a certain Arnedo Valera who claims to be an international human rights lawyer.

In an article posted on DZAR website, Valera made a sweeping claim that  Marcos bears full responsibility for the budget scandal — which was aptly described as “a distortion of both the law and the truth.”

“To say the President alone is guilty of the budget mess is not just misleading but is a constitutional falsehood.” said Dr. Jose Antonio Goitia in his capacity as chairman emeritus of Alyansa ng Bantay sa Kapayapaan at Demokrasya (ABKD), People’s Alliance for Democracy and Reforms (PADER), Liga Independencia Pilipinas (LIPI), and Filipinos Do Not Yield (FDNY) Movement.

DISTORTED NOTION

“Let us not forget what the Constitution itself provides. Article VI, Section 24 is clear—all appropriation bills originate from the House of Representatives and as such, Congress crafts, debates and finalizes the budget, including every insertion,” Goitia pointed out. 

“If there are questionable items, accountability begins with those who authored and approved them in the legislative process,” he added.

The civic leader added that to pin everything on the President “is not only inaccurate but also undermines the principle of separation of powers.” 

“The veto is a shield, not a sword. It cannot turn the President into a super legislator. The Constitution designed it as a defensive mechanism, not a license to rewrite the budget entirely. Without clear legal grounds, vetoing billions would risk overreach and paralyze communities dependent on those projects. Prudence, not recklessness, defines responsible leadership,” he argued. 

RESIGN OR IMPEACH 

On suggestions that the budget controversy rises to the level of impeachment, Goitia categorically stated that “impeachment under Article XI is for grave abuse of power, culpable violation of the Constitution or betrayal of public trust, so, signing into law a budget passed through the proper legislative process does not meet this threshold.” 

“If their logic was applied, then nearly every President since 1987 should have been impeached. That is not law, that is partisan fantasy,” he noted laughably. 

And as for resignation, Goitia stressed that this is not a constitutional remedy but a personal choice since “resignation is not demanded by partisan outrage.”

“Our system provides only two lawful avenues: impeachment or elections. Anything outside of these weakens our democracy and destabilizes the Republic,” he enthused. 

IN DEFENSE OF ICI

Goitia likewise defended the creation of the Independent Commission on Infrastructure by Malacañan stressing that “under the Administrative Code, the chief executive has the authority to establish fact finding bodies. 

“These are not shields but instruments to investigate allegations and ensure findings that can stand in court. To reduce this to the phrase ‘investigating himself’ is a shallow soundbite. Transparency requires evidence, process, and structure, not political sloganeering,” he asserted. 

In closing, Goitia emphasized that accountability in the budget process cannot be reduced to a single person.

“The budget is the product of an entire constitutional process. Congress authors it, the Executive reviews it, and the Judiciary is there to check abuses.” 

To single out the President while ignoring legislative accountability is not only unfair, it is reckless. President Marcos has exercised his constitutional duties with restraint and stability. The real danger lies not in his leadership, but in those who weaponize deception to weaken the Republic,” he concluded.

Magalong On A Break, Goes To South Korea

Tracy Cabrera
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0
Magalong On A Break, Goes To South Korea

FOR ALL THE pressures he had in the last couple of weeks, resigned Independent Commission For Infrastructure (ICI) special adviser Benjamin Magalong has gone on a break far from the toxic controversies over systemic corruption.

“Good morning Tracy. Leaving for South Korea today. God bless,” reads a short text message sent by Magalong at around 12:53 early today. 

It was not certain though whether his departure had something to do with his abrupt resignation from the ICC where he had a brief stint as its special adviser.

HIS OWN VOLITION 

In a statement issued prior to his departure, Magalong shrugged off rumors of an imminent transfer to other positions free from the so-called “conflict of interest.” 

According to him, quitting the ICI is his own volition even as he cited the need to preserve credibility in the ongoing probe on irregularities in government transactions and projects. 

By his own admission, Magalong felt slighted over allegations which tend to place him in a bad light. His name is being dragged into a tennis court project built by the Discaya-owned St. Gerrard Construction Company in Baguio City where he serves as mayor.

“Once and for all, I would like to make it clear that there is no conflict of interest in my role. My work as mayor of Baguio and my service with the ICI have always been guided by one principle: the highest standards of integrity in public service,” reads his statement.

ICI PROBE INTEGRITY

The former police officer turned politician also gave a premium on the need to safeguard the integrity of the ICI headed by former Supreme Court Associate Justice Andres Reyes Jr. 

Magalong, who is now on a personal trip in South Korea, reiterated that he stepped down as ICI adviser to dispel doubts over the ICI’s independence. 

“Recent developments have cast doubt on the independence of the commission. Independence is the bedrock of accountability, and without it, our credibility is compromised,” he cited. 

“I refuse to allow these doubts to weaken the ICI and its mandate. That is why I have chosen to step aside, not to abandon the fight, but to protect the very integrity of the fight.” 

DOING THINGS RIGHT

The mayor stressed that his decision was not an admission of wrongdoing and that he had never neglected his primary duty to the people of Baguio City who bestowed upon him a gargantuan mandate.

“Within or outside the ICI, I will continue this crusade against corruption with the same resolve I have carried in every battle I have faced: from Mamasapano to the Ninja Cops probe to standing up against traditional politics, and now to exacting accountability from those who plunder public funds,” he asserted.

“Every peso stolen from the people is not just an act of theft. It is a school left unfinished, a hospital without medicine, a bridge that collapses, and a nation’s hopes betrayed,” Magalong further said.

“We cannot allow corruption to define our future. We must stand together for transparency, accountability, and good governance for our country, and for the future generations of Filipinos. The power of the people will always be stronger than the power of the few. The crusade against corruption continues.”

DPWH Spent P774M For A Defective Pumping Station

Fernan Angeles
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DPWH Spent P774M For A Defective Pumping Station

THE DEPARTMENT OF Public Works and Highways in 2017 spent a whopping P774 million to defray the cost of a pumping station in a bid to address the perennial flooding problem in Tondo. 

But instead of getting rid of floods, the problem worsened, according to Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon, following the ocular inspection conducted by the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) that was created by the President by virtue of an executive order.

Dizon particularly hinted at the Apog Pumping Station in Tondo, Manila, which has never been used since its supposed completion in 2020.

The DPWH Secretary then — Senator Mark Villar.

REPEATEDLY FUNDED

Funded in 2017, the began the following year with a completion date pumping station was funded starting in 2017, and is supposed to be completed by year 2020.

For the current year, an additional P94 million was earmarked for “repairs” for a facility that has never been used, for which Dizon ordered the suspension of the repair process pending an investigation by a third-party inspector to determine the actual repairs needed.

“What we’re seeing is there seems to be a pattern in these projects—funds are released, payments are made, but they turn out either substandard or sometimes even ghost projects,” Dizon said. 

“Because we might just be throwing nearly P100 million here.”

BERATED IN PUBLIC

During the inspection, Dizon berated DPWH regional officials for what he referred to as excessive funds poured into a project that never served its purpose.

The DPWH chief added that the project meant to solve the problem, worsened the predicament.

“Instead of helping, it made things worse. Before this was built, the water level here was low. When they put this up—and obviously it hasn’t worked since completion—the flooding here became worse,” Dizon added.

Senator Villar, in his capacity as then Secretary of the DPWH, led its 2018 inauguration even as he boasted of the project as the department’s “long-term solution” to rampant flooding in nearby areas.

TOO EMBARASSING

On the part of the Manila City government, Mayor Isko Moreno insisted that the DPWH Metro Manila regional office never coordinated with the local government unit and that no building permit was secured, proving it was never made operational.

“Aren’t we ashamed?” Moreno said. “If you ask the people here, before this pumping station, the water was manageable. Life was normal. But when the pumping station supposedly for flood control was built, it became flood un-control.”

For the project to be fully utilized, DPWH Metro Manila regional office cited the need for another P200 million for the pumping station to be fully functional.

Without blinking an eye, Dizon rejected the request.

Guteza Peers Deny Cash Drop Tale

Rose de la Cruz
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Guteza Peers Deny Cash Drop Tale

WHAT COULD HAVE been the first direct testimony linking former House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez into the anomalous flood control scandal turned out otherwise as peers of retired Marine soldier Orly Guteza warded off what they described as more of a “tell tale.” 

Guteza previously admitted before the Senate blue ribbon committee having delivered 35 cash-filled suitcases to Romualdez.

Mark B. Dumagan of New Lower Bicutan, Taguig and Allan P. Colesio of Nabas, Aklan said their names were mentioned before the blue ribbon committee appearance of Guteza, whom they claimed worked with the Ako Bicol partylist group, but not directly with Cong. Zaldy Co.

Both insisted that it was the congressman’s relatives with whom Guteza worked with.

In no instance, they said, did they remember, hear or made aware of bringing suitcases of money to two locations: 56th floor of Horizon Residences, Taguig, the home of Co and to 42 McKinley St., Taguig, supposedly the home of former Speaker Romualdez.

According to Guteza’s peers (Dumagan and Colesio), they were frantic while watching the retired Marine soldier at the Blue Ribbon Committee hearing on YouTube where he named them as his companions in delivering garbage (huge amounts of money) in big suitcases to these addresses.

To dispel doubt on their counter claim, both expressed willingness to execute separate affidavits (which they did) and be sworn by the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee inquiry on the flood control fund mess — if only to clear their names.

In their statement posted on X, they said they freely voluntarily executed their statements with no coercion, payment given them on September 26, 2025, or the following day that Guteza was presented and supposedly “coached” by Senator Rodante Marcoleta.

While Dumagan and Colesio claimed to be soldiers, it was not certain whether or not they’re still in active service.

Fleet Of Red Plates Spotted in Casino Hotel

Rose de la Cruz
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0
Fleet Of Red Plates Spotted in Casino Hotel

NOT EVEN THE creation of an independent commission to look into anomalous government infrastructure projects is enough to calm down a public outrage against corruption.

In a Facebook post that saw several government vehicles billeted in a secured parking area of a Clark-based hotel casino, netizens pounded on the “insensitivity” of government officials.

Three government vehicles bearing red license plates were traced to different local government units — the Province of Zambales, Municipality of San Luis, and Municipality Maria Aurora.

It was not certain though which province San Luis belonged as web sources showed four provinces hosting towns with similar names — Batangas, Pampanga, Agusan del Sur and Aurora.

FRANTIC REACTIONS

Hours after being uploaded, the netizens went wild over the social media post.

As of this writing, the Facebook post by a netizen who goes by the name Ajarn Chris, has already generated 15,000 reactions, 2,300 comments and 6,300 shares. The figure does not include emoticons corresponding to each comment — most sarcastic, furious and in some instances wishing death to corrupt government people.

Comments on Ajarn Chris’ post ranged from outrage — accusing its passengers of laundering money through the casino or gambling, which under existing laws is prohibited to all government officials and employees. 

For one, entering and playing in casinos is considered a violation of the ethical standards law for civil servants. 

However, not all comments seemed receptive to the post which contained an unredacted photo of the government vehicles, as some chose to go neutral, kind, and rather cautious.

Some of the comments urged fellow netizens not to be hasty but to first verify if there is an ongoing seminar, planning session or team building before passing bad judgments on the government people.

MOSTLY FUMING MAD

But the majority was really an expression of outrage as people are now fed up with the massive and pervasive corruption in government as shown by the collusion of private contractors with the Department of Public Works and Highways, Congress and Senate — and perhaps powerful people at the Palace.

People are getting impatient with the slow pace of investigations such that even after one month, no one implicated in the billion pesos flood control project fund mess has been formally charged and jailed.

With every passing day, the public have grown eagerly weary that the real culprits in the systemic corruption would never be prosecuted and jailed because they are either very powerful themselves or are very close and influential to those in power.

Social media has been ablaze with mocking memes and satiric songs and narratives that either delights or deepens the animosity of people to those in government. 

The build-up in hostility toward government officials is evidenced by the tight lens of people in spotting infractions– big and small– committed by those donning government uniforms, simple statements or using official cars.

Anomalies Slipped Undermanned CoA

Tracy Cabrera
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Anomalies Slipped Undermanned CoA

THE FLOOD CONTROL brouhaha would have been avoided if only the Commission on Audit had enough qualified personnel to execute the agency’s mandate — to examine, audit, and settle all government accounts, ensuring fiscal accountability and promoting good governance.

In what appears to be a lame excuse aimed at preventing COA from being dragged into the flood control scandal, acting assistant director Tracy Ann Sunico blamed the predicament hounding the agency – lack of state auditors.

Grilled by the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee headed by Senator Panfilo Lacson, Sunico admitted flood control anomalies slipped past their scrutiny.

“Dalawa lang ang audit team member,” Sunico replied when asked by Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian why COA failed to detect the irregularities in the conduct of the infrastructure development projects particularly in Bulacan, where most were found to be either substandard or non-existent. 

Gatchalian described COA as the “last safeguard” against corruption, which could have prevented the flood control fiasco at the Bulacan First District Engineering Office (DEO).

“Sa pagka intindi ko po sa isang district office, mayroon ho silang power na magplano, gumawa ng detailed engineering, sila na rin nagpapa-bid, sila na rin po nag-iinspect at nagbabayad,” the pointed out. 

“Kapag nagbayad, papasok ang COA sa post-audit level. So, ibig sabihin, kahit may ghost project, madi-detect ng COA sa post-audit level,” he added. 

To this Sunico replied: “Supposedly to be po.” 

Gatchalian then questioned why the Commission’s auditing team in Bulacan failed to flag projects that were reported as nearly complete just days after the project had started.

He cited a case where a project was reported as 46 percent complete just two days after the Notice to Proceed (NTP) and 89 percent complete after only 86 days. 

The legislator also mentioned a separate river bank protection structure along Pampanga River in Barangay Bulusan, Calumpit, Bulacan, that was declared 89 percent complete only 15 days after the NTP was issued.  

“Kayo ho nakita nyo po itong mga dokumentong ito?” Gatchalian asked Sunico. 

The state auditor asserted then that the DEOs did not submit disbursement vouchers and supporting documents, so auditors only relied on the report on publicized government program projects and activities to have a grasp on the projects’ progress.

“Dahil hindi pa nga mag-submit, na-compel po si auditor na mag-issue ng notices of disallowance primarily dahil may indication na po ng fraud,” she averred, in reference to Bulacan resident auditor Cinderella Esperanza Santos. 

Santos however didn’t show up at the Senate hearing. The excuse — she’s down with a flu.

Sunico explained that from 2020 to 2023, the government imposed pandemic restrictions, but the auditing team tried to inspect the projects as early as 2022.

She further quantified that auditors struggled with a shortage of manpower, after around a hundred plantilla positions were removed in the agency in 2023.

“Sir dadalawa lang po iyong audit team… Ibig ko sabihin, mayroon po tayong audit team leader, isa lang din po ang kanyang audit team member. Aside from Bulacan First DEO, on which case from 2022 nasa 120 or 140 po iyong flood control projects po nila, lumobo po sila ng 2023 and 2024 by double po ng numbers, sa flood control projects lang yun sir,” Sunico claimed.

“In 2023, sa budget ng COA for 2023, nagbawas po ng plantilla position by 100+ employees supposed to be na dapat ma-deploy sa auditing agencies. Kaya po ang distribution lang po ng bawat audit team na mabibigat, nasa two auditors lang po,” she further clarified.

In addition, it was learned that CoA also has limited officials assigned per province, like Central Luzon—which has drawn attention this year over flood control issues—covers seven provinces but is served by only 16 technical specialists.

“Sa Bulacan, isa or dalawa lang po ang assigned, kaya hindi niya po ma-inspect lahat,” she stressed to emphasize the need for reinforcement through more team members for the Commission. 

Sen. Gatchalian, however, rejected the manpower issue as the main reason the flood control scam slipped past CoA. 

“Parang hindi po katanggap-tanggap na because of lack of manpower, lumagpas ito ng ilang years. Kasi di ba every end of the year, may exit conference. Sasabihin sa ‘yo lahat ng deficiency doon, kapag di mo nagawa, next year puro disallowance.” 

He also raised the possibility that some auditors could have been complicit.

Magalong Quits Even Before He Gets Fired

Angel F. Jose
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Magalong Quits Even Before He Gets Fired

AMID TALKS OF an impending “transfer to another position deemed free from any conflict of interest,” Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong wasted no time by resigning as Independent Commission for Infrastructure special adviser days after being appointed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

“The Palace’s pronouncements concerning my designation, which run contrary to the terms of my appointment, undermined the role and mandate entrusted to me,” reads part of Magalong’s resignation letter dated September 26.

“Combined with circumstances that already cast doubt on the independence of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure, it has become clear that my continued service is no longer tenable,” he added. 

The resignation letter is “effective immediately.”

SHADOWING DIZON

Interestingly, the role relegated to Magalong is far from the position of an adviser as stipulated in the appointment letter to the ICI, a special body initially tasked to dig deep into the anomalous flood control projects.

Taking cue from the photographs published in various news outlets, Magalong looked more of a bodyguard shadowing Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon in inspecting public infrastructure projects across the country.

Aside from being an ICI special adviser, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro claimed that the tedious task relegated to Magalong has been eating so much of his time, hence affecting his mandate as city mayor.

“Nadinig po din natin ang kagalang-galang na Mayor Magalong na nauubusan na yata siya or busy siya or kinukulang na ang oras niya sa Baguio City dahil busy siya sa ICI,” Castro told reporters in a Palace press briefing.

ONE STEP AHEAD

Prior to his resignation, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said that the President directed his legal team to study the implications of Magalong’s concurrent role as ICI special adviser.

Castro however kept mum over issues embarking on an allegedly anomalous tennis court project in Baguio City, linked to the St. Gerrard property owned by the controversial Discaya family.

The Palace official also clarified that Magalong was appointed by Marcos solely as special adviser to the ICI and not as its lead investigator or member.

Hence, the former police officer, who gained prominence in the botched Mamasapano operation that killed 44 police Special Action Force troopers in 2015, holds no investigative powers over the Philippine National Police (PNP) or the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG).

PNP is under the direct supervision of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).

CONFLICT OF INTEREST

According to Labor coalition chair and Federation of Free Workers president Sonny Matula, Magalong cannot assume two government positions simultaneously.

“To insist on wearing two hats — as mayor and investigator — risks making the probe look like a half-hearted initiative, good in form but weak in substance,” Matula was quoted as saying.

The militant labor advocate particularly cited Section 7, Article IX-B of the 1987 Constitution, which prohibits elective officials from being appointed to any public office during their tenure, unless allowed by law or required by the primary functions of their position.

DOJ To Prosecute Star-Studded Cast Of Crooks?

Rose de la Cruz
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0
DOJ To Prosecute Star-Studded Cast Of Crooks?

THE DEPARTMENT OF Justice (DoJ) had just released a star-studded cast of elected, appointed and career service officials allegedly connected with the biggest fund scandal ever to rock the government in the last forty years. 

The DoJ said that on the basis of the strength of sworn affidavits it and the National Bureau of Investigation executed, the following are for case build-up by the National Prosecution Service:

  • Rep. Elizaldy (Zaldy) S. Co
  • Senator Francis Chiz Escudero 
  • Sen. Emmanuel Joel Jose Villanueva
  • Sen. Jose “Jinggoy” Pimentel Ejercito Jr.
  • Alias Beng Ramos
  • Alias Mina
  • Undersecretary Mary Mitzi “Mitch” Lim Cajayon-Uy
  • Maynard S. Ngu
  • Former Sen. Ramon Bautista “Bong” Revilla Jr.
  • Carmen Y. Villa
  • Undersecretary Roberto R. Bernardo
  • Engr. Henry C. Alcantara
  • John Carlo Rivera
  • Linda “Victoria” Macanas
  • Juanito Mendoza, CPA
  • Sally Nicolas Santos
  • Jesse Mahusay
  • Alias “Andrei Balatbat”
  • Engr. Brice Ericson D. Hernandez
  • Engr. Jaypee O. Mendoza
  • Engr. Arjay D. Domasig

Conspicuously missing on the list are former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, resigned DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan and Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral.

SUFFICIENT LINKS

In a press statement, the DoJ said the memorandum stems directly from the sworn testimonies of Engineers Henry Alcantara, Brice Hernandez, Jaypee Mendoza and former Usec Roberto Bernardo.

“Their statements provided the basis for clarifying these individuals as having sufficient preliminary links to the acts under investigation,” the DoJ said. 

The DoJ made clear that their inclusion in the NBIs recommendation “is not a matter of speculation or rumor, but a result of sworn testimony under oath. “

“If names have circulated outside of these affidavits, those are not recognized by the DoJ or the NBI until such time that they are sworn to under proper proceedings,” the DoJ said.

STATE PROTECTION

Justice Secretary Crispin Remulla recently hinted at placing former DPWH officials Engineers Alcantara, Hernandez, Mendoza and Cezarah Rowena Discaya and her husband Pacific Discaya under protected witness status.

He said the DoJ has written to the Senate President to formalize their request for protection and will hold further discussions with the chamber. 

“These witnesses are showing good faith by coming forward with documents and notes they have kept through the years. We consider them protected witnesses,” Remulla said in reference to the ledgers and records that could help in the agency’s case building.

A protected witness is different from a state witness. Under existing legal parameters, state witnesses are free from criminal liability.

NEED TO EVALUATE

The DoJ chief disclosed that the Discayas were granted the same protection, but the government would still have to evaluate the scope of assistance, including security for their families. 

“We will help them first with the security problems.”

Remulla noted the information gathered so far has gone beyond what has been revealed in Senate hearings, with more names and details expected to surface. DoJ’s role is to prosecute cases, but securing witnesses and evidence is key to moving investigations forward.

Remulla noted that Hernandez has already been returning assets, including a Lamborghini Urus, to the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) as part of restitution efforts.

“These are symbols of wealth that should not have been amassed by a public servant. If these came from government funds, they must not be repeated,” he said.

As for the recovered loot, the Justice Secretary hinted that it would be auctioned promptly, with the proceeds remitted to the Treasury.

RETURN THE LOOT

Malacañang on Wednesday said President Marcos, Jr. wants stolen flood control funds to be returned to state coffers.

“Return the people’s money. It is not enough to simply file cases against those involved in the anomalous flood control projects; nor is it enough to imprison them because the President wants people’s money to be returned,” said Palace spokesperson Usec. Claire Castro.   

This also comes as the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) had frozen the assets of contractors and agency officials implicated in the scandal.

Public Works Secretary Vivencio Dizon asked AMLC on Wednesday to freeze about P474.48 million worth of vehicles registered under DPWH officials, staff, and private contractors.

The department will likewise issue show-cause orders to 10 regional directors and engineers over allegations of lavish lifestyles, document tampering, and links to defective projects.

WORK RESUMPTION

The President also ordered the immediate repair of substandard and unfinished government projects to prevent taxpayers’ money from going to waste following revelations that some of the DPWH projects were deliberately built below standards to allow kickbacks.

“What needs fixing should be repaired immediately so it can be utilized, otherwise the money spent will go to waste.”

Last Two Minutes For Zaldy Co

Rose de la Cruz
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0
Last Two Minutes For Zaldy Co

UNLIKE THE VICTIMS of the bloody war against drugs perpetrated by the previous administration, a partylist congressman behind the biggest corruption scandal to hit the country, has been accorded the right to live and due process.

However, time doesn’t seem on Ako Bicol partylist Congressman Zaldy Co’s side even as House Speaker Faustino Dy III reminded the fugitive legislator that he only has until Monday (September 29) to return to the Philippines — and defend himself in the proper forum, legally.

“You have until Monday to comply with our directive. As we stressed in our Sept. 18, 2025 communication to you, failure to comply shall be construed as your refusal to subject yourself to the lawful processes of the House and will result in the initiation of appropriate disciplinary and legal actions,” reads part of a document signed by Dy for his beleaguered colleague.

Aside from allegations of receiving billions worth of kickbacks from ghost government-funded infrastructure projects, Co is also facing an ethics complaint which may warrant suspension — or worse, expulsion from the roster of House legislators.

Co left the country by virtue of a travel authority secured weeks before Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez stepped down as Speaker of the House of Representatives. His reason — medical treatment.

The House leader assured Co that should he return, “we will coordinate with proper authorities to secure your safety and that of your family.”

He emphasized that the revocation of Co’s travel clearance should not be construed as prejudgment but as an “opportunity to answer the allegations against you directly and in the proper forum.”

“Aside from the issues that have been raised against you, you also face a complaint that is now in the House Ethics Committee.”

“Coming home will allow you to respond to this complaint and to fully present and elaborate on the defenses you elaborated in your letter,” he quipped.

According to the House leader, the proper way to address matters is not through correspondence from abroad, but by returning, appearing in the proper forum and answering charges directly.

Co’s name forms part of a list of government officials (executive and legislative), private contractors and other personalities dragged into the flood control funds scandal.

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