Imee: Flood control probe must reach 'the highest offices'

Senator Imee Marcos has called for the continuation of investigations into the ongoing flood control scandal, emphasizing that accountability should extend even to the highest offices, including Malacañang.

She made the remarks during a radio interview, underscoring the urgency of resolving the issue and holding those responsible to account.

“The investigations have been going on for so long, yet no one has been jailed,” Marcos said. “We are all praying for a solution, for the chaos to end, and for those responsible to face justice as soon as possible. The public’s anger will not subside until there are arrests.”

Marcos also stressed that targeting only minor officials or small-time contractors is insufficient. “Let’s not just focus on assistant division engineers or minor contractors. Even wealthy contractors who are not officials are just following orders from their bosses,” she added.

She further highlighted the responsibility of higher-ranking officials, saying, “The contractors and the Department of Public Works and Highways bear significant blame, but ultimately, we know it is the politicians and the signatories who are at fault. Hopefully, arrests and prosecutions will finally take place, after so many investigations with no one held accountable.”

On the political tension in the Senate surrounding the issue, Marcos said she feels the matter is being treated like a game. “I really feel we’re just running in circles. There’s always news about a possible coup in the Senate because of the constant changes in the Blue Ribbon Committee, hearings being blocked or rescheduled, even budget hearings. You really can’t tell what the schedule is,” she said.

When asked if she would attend the major rally scheduled for November 16 to 18, Marcos said some senators are considering going to offer prayers. “Of course, we are all praying for a solution to finally emerge,” she said.

Reflecting on the broader societal impact of the scandal, Marcos noted the overwhelming flood of information. “There’s so much news, so many rallies and strikes, it’s hard to know what is true anymore,” she said.

She also expressed concern about the economic struggles faced by ordinary Filipinos, adding, “One thing is clear: the economy is declining. Christmas is approaching, and I hope no family will spend it without food or celebration.”

Marcos, who celebrated her birthday on the same day as the interview, said she chose to use her birthday funds to help those in need rather than host a personal celebration, calling it a more fulfilling way to mark the occasion.

The flood control scandal, which has been the subject of repeated inquiries, involves allegations of corruption and mismanagement in public works projects meant to prevent flooding. Despite multiple investigations, no major prosecutions have occurred, fueling public frustration over governance and accountability.