Senator Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan has urged the Philippine government to provide a thorough accounting of funds allocated for flood-control initiatives. His call comes as heavy southwest monsoon rains have led to extensive flooding in Metro Manila and surrounding provinces, disrupting classes and halting government work.
A Call for Accountability
Every Filipino has the right to know where every peso allocated for flood control was used. It should be clear where the money went and what the results were. There cannot be projects that exist only on paper while people still get flooded whenever it rains.
Senator Francis Pangilinan
Pangilinan emphasized the need for a complete report detailing flood-control expenditures, including project locations, costs, contractors, and implementation outcomes. He stated that without transparency, the government's efforts remain questionable.
- Detailed accounting of flood-control funds requested
- Call for a comprehensive national flood management plan
- Emphasis on science-based and transparent strategies
The senator also proposed the creation of a national flood management plan that is science-based and addresses both current and future flooding risks, particularly those exacerbated by climate change. He noted, "Even if we spend billions, if our flood control management plan is not coordinated, our roads and homes will continue to be flooded."