UP Professors Urge Senator Marcoleta to Expose Corruption, Answer Charges

MANILA, Philippines — Two political science professors from the University of the Philippines (UP) have criticized Senator Rodante Marcoleta’s statement that the truth about corruption in the country’s controversial flood control projects had also been “imprisoned” since his arrest on plunder charges. “No senator or government official or faction in government has the monopoly over the truth,” Maria Ela Atienza, a professor at UP, said. Her remark was a retort to Marcoleta’s assertion, which appeared to link his arrest to the alleged corruption within flood control projects. The professors expressed concern that Marcoleta might be using his position to conceal accusations of corruption or divert attention from the charges he faces. Corruption in infrastructure projects funded by public money has been a long-standing issue in the Philippines, demanding renewed public trust. This issue underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in Philippine politics. Strict oversight and fair investigations are crucial, especially for public works funded by taxpayer money.