IBON Foundation: Anti-corruption drive insufficient amid looming cases vs. Romualdez

A development policy research group in the Philippines has expressed skepticism regarding the Marcos administration's anti-corruption drive. Sonny Africa, executive director of the IBON Foundation, questioned the effectiveness of the campaign following the announcement that cases would be filed against former House Speaker Martin Romualdez. He stated that less than 5% of those allegedly involved in corruption have been charged, and questioned if this was the administration's "big bombshell." "Because he cannot say that his anti-corruption campaign is moving forward... If after a year, fewer than 50 people have been charged, that would still be less than 5% of all those involved in corruption," Africa added. During his State of the Nation Address on Monday, President Marcos highlighted the charges filed against several officials, lawmakers, and contractors in connection with alleged corruption in flood control projects, which he disclosed in last year's address. Marcos also revealed that the Office of the Ombudsman was preparing to file multiple cases against his cousin, former House Speaker Romualdez. In response, Romualdez stated that he had never asked Marcos for any favor or special treatment. However, IBON Foundation argued that some of the "big fish" allegedly linked to corruption have escaped accountability. "So this isn't just about big fish who managed to slip away. There are big fish who were given new positions in a bank, while another was even made the presiding officer of the Senate. So quite a few have managed to escape accountability," Africa said. The foundation did not identify specific individuals or elaborate on their alleged involvement in corruption linked to flood control projects, emphasizing their view that many "big fish" have evaded responsibility. Corruption has been a long-standing social issue in the Philippines, with anti-corruption campaigns being a recurring theme in successive administrations. However, the effectiveness and fairness of these campaigns are often debated, particularly when allegations arise that individuals close to the administration or powerful figures evade prosecution. Gaining public trust requires more transparent and effective measures.