The palace says that the govt is strengthening measures against corruption after the call of the biz groups
The Marcos Administration on Monday said it is intensifying its anti-corruption efforts following calls by major Philippine business groups to streamline and decide “public works projects.
“A lot has been done and many more are still being investigated,” said Claburs Chief Clarissa A. Castro told a press conference in the Philippines, hidden efforts such as the creation of Phila “Sumbung SA Pangulo” and the Independent Infrastructure Commission (ICI).
“The President and the administration share the sentiments of the businessmen, which is why the investigation continues, and actions are taken immediately to arrest those involved.”
In a joint resolution, major Philippine business organizations over the weekend appealed to Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos, JR. taking over the reins of deception, dealing with a major threat to the country’s economy, management and standing in other countries.
They see that while businesses pay regular taxes and regulatory fees, they expect that the government will clearly respond.
The Coalition, which consists of the Makati Business Club, the Chilean Chamber of Commerce and Industry, as well as making agreements with the employers of the Philippines, among others, and those called by the President to give the power that has the authority to
They warned that continued unemployment could weaken the Philippines’ competitiveness and deter foreign investment.
They added that restoring integrity to government services is critical to rebuilding public trust and promoting sustainable economic growth.
Ms. Castro said Malacañang acknowledges that ICI could use “big teeth,” but maintained that it is already doing well under the existing mandate.
“When ICICI calls Witnesses – even Senators and members of Congress – they cooperate and respond. The investigation is going well,” he said.
Asking if the President is open to giving the ICEs expanded powers in the laws, as proposed by Caloocan Rep. Edgar R. Erice, Ms. Castro said the President “will not open the door” to that idea.
“If there is an opportunity for improvement, the President is always open. But right now, the work of Zici speaks for itself,” he said.
A plan to cut costs
Meanwhile, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on Monday said it will soon release its recommendations to reduce the project cost of local infrastructure projects.
“In the near future, we will only be coming with each board (recommendation), but each region’s adjustment of the cost of construction materials for all projects,” said Public Works Secretary Vincencio B. Dizon.
The recommendations are part of the Agency’s Secured Contract Revamp involving contractors and public works officials accused of underfunding flood control projects.
“In the next few weeks, we will be announcing a recommendation that is already more advanced and this should be implemented immediately, not just to continue, but it should be implemented immediately, especially, those projects that are still more advanced,” he added.
In the same country, Satan Lorna Regina “Loren” B. Legarda proposed to cut all the infrastructure works of DPHWICR by about 25%, coming in by 30%, coming in with Project Costs ‘as temporary costs. “
Senator Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV said that the budget allocation for health care abroad may not be approved if the DPWH fails to deal with the neglect.
“If there is an oversupply, we will not be able to sign in good conscience knowing that the structure and costs of the materials are transferred,” said Mr. Aquino.
The head of public works said that some infrastructure projects have been found to be overrun by up to 30% of the original cost.
“Because many of them are higher than the actual cost of materials used throughout the country,” he added.
Mr. Dizon said any savings made through cost-cutting measures can be used by the government for “very important or essential services.”
Earlier, the 2026 budget for 2026 was attacked at P625.78 billion, 28.9% below the original request of P881.31 billion, after Mr. – Chloe Mari A. Hufana and Adrian H. Halili
