Negros Occidental 3rd district Rep. Javier Miguel "javi" Benitez has reiterated his backing of President Marcos' audit of questionable flood control projects even as Filipinos continue to suffer from worsened flooding.

"I welcome President Marcos’ order to investigate P350 billion in flood control projects and, with like-minded colleagues, demand from all concerned agencies full disclosure of all project details, including names of contractors and politicians responsible for these multi-billion peso projects funded by our taxpayers," Benitez said in a privilege speech Wednesday, Sept. 3.

Benitez stood in plenary just days after parts of the metropolis underwent another harrowing episode of floods.

"Over the weekend, we experienced a "phenomenon"- five days' worth of rainfall fell in just one hour: a hyperlocalized rainfall, primarily affecting Quezon City and Marikina City.

In that short time, these areas received a staggering 121 millimeters of rain, surpassing the previous record for the highest rainfall in one hour during Typhoon Ondoy, which was 90 millimeters," he recalled.

"In certain areas, traffic came to a standstill as cars became trapped in the floodwaters, with some even seen 'floating away'. Although there was no tropical depression, the Quezon City Government reported that flooding affected 36 out of 142 barangays, prompting some families to evacuate," noted the "House hotshots" member.

"As we all know, the Philippines is grappling with a major corruption scandal involving flood control projects. Allegations of substandard work, incomplete projects, and outright 'ghost projects' have sparked public outrage and the ire of no less than the President, who has vowed accountability and launched investigations," he said.

Amid the wave of public anger on anomalous and "ghost" flood control projects, Benitez said the angle of climate change must not be set aside. He stressed that equal attention must be given to prevention and preparedness measures before disasters occur.

"I have personally signed the call for transparency initiated by several local chief executives, as I strongly believe in good governance, transparency, and accountability. And while I fully support the investigation into the corruption associated with flood control projects, I urge this honorable body to consider broader issues," he said.

The neophyte solon highlighted the need to pursue climate justice in light of the unfair burden faced by countries like the Philippines, which suffer from the severe impacts of climate change despite contributing only about 0.5 percent of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions.

He pointed to major fossil fuel corporations commonly referred to as the Carbon Majors whose long-standing activities have had significant effects on global warming, which in turn drives climate change.

The congressman further urged the House to make the 20th Congress one for climate justice, courageous in holding accountable those responsible, and fair in defending the people’s right to a safe and sustainable environment.