Frustrated university students demand accountability

BACOLOR, Pampanga — Stranded in flooded dormitories with classes suspended, freshmen at Pampanga State University expressed growing anger Tuesday over long-unfulfilled government promises to fix chronic flooding across Central Luzon.

Monsoon rains enhanced by typhoons “Luis” and “Maymay” submerged more than 200 villages across Pampanga, forcing hundreds of families into evacuation centers, disaster officials reported.

In interviews, university students recounted being cut off from food supplies as floodwaters reached waist-deep levels in surrounding neighborhoods.

“Floodwaters block roads, we have run out of supplies, and we are unable to buy what we need,” said Drik, an architecture student. “There have been so many promises from the government, yet up to now, nothing has been done.”

The student frustration comes amid persistent allegations that public funds intended for flood control projects were misused or pocketed by corrupt contractors and officials, leaving critical infrastructure unfinished.

Public anger has been further inflamed by resurfaced comments from Senate Blue Ribbon Committee chair Senator Erwin Tulfo suggesting flood control projects should not be disrupted.

Students joined broader public calls for the Senate to resume formal investigations into flood control budget anomalies.

“Do not let this be forgotten — it matters greatly that the truth comes out and accountability is served,” students urged.