MANILA — Anger is boiling over in the streets as allegations of corruption in flood-control projects continue to rock the government. Citizens, students, and advocacy groups have begun staging rallies in Metro Manila and key provinces, demanding accountability for what they call “billions washed away.”

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. acknowledged the mounting frustration, urging the public to make their voices heard “in a peaceful and constructive way.” He vowed that no one, not even political allies, would be shielded from the ongoing investigations.

“We will hold accountable those who betrayed public trust. There will be no sacred cows,” Marcos said in a statement this week. (AP News)

Senate Hearings Expose Anomalies

Televised hearings at the Senate have revealed that several flood-control projects—many in typhoon-prone provinces—were either overpriced, substandard, or never completed at all. Legislators grilled engineers and contractors, with whistleblowers alleging collusion between public works officials and private firms.

Protest Movement Builds Up

In Manila, student groups unfurled banners reading “Tama na, sobra na” while civil society organizations announced a larger protest on September 21, coinciding with the anniversary of martial law.

Police said rally permits will be granted, but warned demonstrators to avoid violence. The Armed Forces also clarified it remains loyal to the civilian government, dismissing rumors of political instability.

What’s Next?

• Protest Watch: Organizers expect thousands to join the September 21 rally.

• Accountability Moves: Lawmakers are pushing for lifestyle checks and a blacklist of contractors involved in anomalous projects.

• Public Works Impact: Local government units are now reassessing ongoing projects in flood-prone provinces.

As typhoon season looms, ordinary Filipinos say their demand is simple: make sure public money builds protection against floods, not political fortunes.