Manila, Philippines – Amidst the various calls condemning the rampant corruption within the government, the House of Representatives reiterated its position to not tolerate these acts.
In a recent press release, House Speaker Martin Romualdez expressed support for the call of business community and civil society groups to end corruption.
On Thursday, 30 of the biggest and most influential business groups in the country gathered together to condemn graft and corruption in the government, particularly in the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), local government units, and in the Commission on Audit (COA).
The groups described this as a collective demand to stop corrupt officials, so that they can show mercy towards Filipinos who are affected by corruption.
Romualdez reiterated that the Lower Chamber will not tolerate corruption, supporting an independent probe on corruption allegations.
“Let me be clear: the House of the People will never condone corruption, whether in public works, local governance, or any other area of government service. Allegations of wrongdoing must be investigated thoroughly and addressed decisively. I fully support initiatives for independent scrutiny and fair prosecution to ensure that those who betray public trust are held accountable under the law,” Romualdez said.
He once again highlighted the measures implemented by the lower chamber to ensure transparency and accountability, particularly in the budget process.
Aside from the dissolving the small committee, civil society and watchdog groups are now invited to directly participate in the budget deliberations.
He further added that the Lower Chamber will be pushing the Budget Modernization act, institutionalizing a performance-based, cash-based, and results-oriented spending framework.
“Together, let us build a governance culture where every peso is protected, every project is transparent, and every public official is held to the highest standard of service,” he added.—Mia Layaguin, Eurotv News