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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider DILG vows corrupt officials, cohorts to rot in jail amid probe into flood control mess

DILG vows corrupt officials, cohorts to rot in jail amid probe into flood control mess

Published Nov 28, 2025 02:31 pm
DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla (File photo: DILG)
DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla (File photo: DILG)
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) reiterated its commitment to holding corrupt officials accountable, particularly those linked to the flood control controversy.
Speaking at the 29th National Convention of the Vice Mayors’ League of the Philippines (VMLP) which concluded on Thursday, Nov. 27, DILG Secretary Juanito Victor “Jonvic” Remulla emphasized that the current administration will not hesitate to impose penalties, including imprisonment, on public servants found guilty of corruption.
"You can be assured that the government of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will not back down from the challenge: those who are wrong, who have erred, and who have stolen will all be imprisoned in 2026,” he said.
The DILG chief underscored the need for integrity in public service as he stressed that the public deserves officials who safeguard taxpayers’ money. He highlighted the role of local governments as the frontline of public service, urging vice mayors to maintain transparency and accountability in their communities.
"Now is the best time to be in local government. No matter what positions you have, we give it our all,” Remulla said as he called for unity in working toward improving provinces and the nation.
As such, the DILG chief highlighted the critical role of local government units (LGUs) in maintaining public trust.
He called on vice mayors nationwide to lead with integrity, noting that accountable local officials help restore confidence in government.
During the convention, Remulla administered the oath of office for the newly elected National Executive Board of the VMLP which includes 17 national executive officers, 18 regional presidents, five national board officers, and committee chairpersons.
The flood control controversy has been the subject of a government investigation following allegations of collusion among government officials and contractors in pocketing billions, if not trillions, in public funds that are originally meant for infrastructure projects.
As part of the investigation, Sandiganbayan has formally charged 16 officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and executives of Sunwest Corporation for their alleged involvement in an anomalous road dike project in Oriental Mindoro amounting to P289.5 million.
Nine of the 16 individuals who have arrest warrants were already under custody by the authorities while search continues for the remaining seven others, including former Ako Bicol Partylist Rep. Zaldy Co.
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