Marcos: Kin not spared from corruption fight

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos declared on Monday that even members of his own family and political allies would not be spared from his administration’s anticorruption campaign. He cited that the Office of the Ombudsman has begun investigating his cousin, former Speaker and Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez, over a multibillion-peso flood control scandal. This statement from the President underscores his administration's commitment to making the fight against corruption one of its top priorities. Romualdez, who served as Speaker under Marcos and holds significant political influence, being named as an investigation subject signals the President's strong resolve to tackle corruption, regardless of the individual's stature. Corruption has long been identified as a major impediment to political and economic development in the Philippines. A significant portion of the population harbors dissatisfaction with the corrupt practices of politicians and public officials, leading to high expectations for anti-corruption measures. By demonstrating a willingness to investigate individuals in power, the Marcos administration aims to restore public trust and enhance political transparency. The alleged irregularities surrounding the flood control projects under scrutiny are seen as a prime example of corruption in public works. Clarifying this issue, which reportedly involves billions of pesos, could contribute to the fiscal health of the Philippines and the improvement of citizens' lives.