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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider 'When the waters rise, so must we': UST condemns corruption in flood control projects, calls for accountability

'When the waters rise, so must we': UST condemns corruption in flood control projects, calls for accountability

Published Sep 17, 2025 08:51 pm
UST condemns corruption in flood control projects in the Philippines, urging transparency, accountability, and swift action to protect flood-prone communities. (MARK BALMORES /MANILA BULLETIN / file)
UST condemns corruption in flood control projects in the Philippines, urging transparency, accountability, and swift action to protect flood-prone communities. (MARK BALMORES /MANILA BULLETIN / file)
The University of Santo Tomas (UST) has strongly condemned alleged corruption in government flood control projects, stressing that the misuse of public funds meant to prevent flooding in Manila and other parts of the country is a “betrayal of public trust.”
In a statement released Wednesday, September 17, UST said that while floods continue to endanger Filipino communities, “worse than rising waters is the rising greed of those entrusted to protect us.”
UST slams misuse of flood control funds
The country’s oldest university criticized reported anomalies in government flood management initiatives, saying that funds earmarked to protect homes and lives from disasters were allegedly diverted for personal gain.
“This is not just bad governance — it is a betrayal of public trust, a deep injustice to the poor, and theft from those most in need,” UST said.
UST stressed that corruption in flood control projects worsens the vulnerability of low-income families in flood-prone areas of Metro Manila and other provinces.
Filipino resilience should not excuse corruption
UST also recalled its own experience with flooding in Manila, particularly on its España campus, which has often been affected during heavy rains.
“At UST, we can understand the pain of flooding. We’ve experienced it on our own campus — disrupting classes, risking health, and challenging our resilience,” the university said.
However, UST emphasized that Filipino resilience should not be used as an excuse for corruption or as a justification for the misuse of public funds. “It should not hide the misuse of public funds or justify injustice,” it added.
Call for truth, transparency, and accountability
UST urged the Philippine government to ensure swift and independent investigations into corruption in flood control programs and demanded that those responsible be held accountable, regardless of position or political influence.
“UST stands by its values of competence, commitment, and compassion. We call for truth, transparency, and accountability. These are not optional — they are necessary,” the statement read.
The university also called for the protection of whistleblowers and public servants who courageously expose anomalies in government projects.
“We must protect and rally behind those who courageously speak the truth, and restore integrity in governance and public service,” UST added.
Thomasians urged to stay vigilant against corruption
As one of the oldest Catholic universities in Asia, UST said it has always stood for truth and integrity.
“Throughout history, UST has always stood for truth. Today, we stand again — calling on all Thomasians and all Filipinos to stay vigilant, speak out, and act with integrity,” it said.
UST also urged Thomasians and Filipinos nationwide to remain vigilant, speak out against corruption, and demand honesty and good governance from public officials.
“With faith and resolve, let us build a generation that says no to corruption and expects honesty, accountability, and true service from those in power,” the university said.

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UST University of Santo Tomas flood control projects corruption in the Philippines flooding in Manila government accountability Metro Manila floods
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