The fact that certain projects funded in earlier budgets were listed as “completed” but were never built, only to be allotted funds again in the 2025 General Appropriations Act, is a clear indication of the rot that has set in our system. It is estimated that these failed and ghost flood control projects have cost taxpayers a staggering P2 trillion in the last 15 years. This is an enormous amount that could have been used to improve the lives of millions of Filipinos.

The President’s denunciation of corruption in infrastructure projects during his State of the Nation Address is a strong signal that the government is serious about addressing this issue. His directive to the DPWH to submit a report on flood-control projects from the past three years is a welcome initiative.

However, words must be followed by concrete actions. The DPWH report must be transparent and comprehensive, and those found responsible for these fraudulent activities must be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.

There should also be an inquiry into claims that DPWH district engineers are complicit in questionable arrangements with contractors, especially if these engineers have a vested interest in the construction firms executing the projects.

Senator Lacson’s call for the private sector to help address the flooding problem is a timely and sensible suggestion. The offer by San Miguel Corp. President Ramon Ang to clean up rivers and waterways at no cost to the government is a shining example of corporate social responsibility. We urge other companies to follow suit and pool their resources to help solve this perennial problem.

The fight against corruption and ghost projects requires a sustained effort from all stakeholders. We commend Senator Lacson for his leadership in this area and urge the private sector to support his efforts. Together, we can create a better future for our country and ensure that our resources are used to improve the lives of all Filipinos, not just a select few.

Finally, accountability must be real and swift. If investigations establish criminality, responsible officials and contractors should face prosecution; if failures were bureaucratic or technical, there must be firmer administrative sanctions and systems reform. Let’s put an end to the comforting illusion that thousands of flood-control projects were successfully completed when, in reality, they were not.

The Philippines needs real infrastructure, not just projects that exist on paper. Cleaning the rivers is essential, but cleaning the system that allows ghost projects to flourish is even more urgent. The 20th Congress must act with the urgency and seriousness necessary to ensure the nation’s safety.