PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. yesterday asked local government officials led by new officers of the League of Provinces of the Philippines (LPP) to serve with integrity and be on alert for and expose any irregularities in projects undertaken by both national and local government.
The President made the call amid the controversy hounding flood control projects nationwide.
“I urge you. Let us serve the people with honestly. Let us ensure that the right projects are being implemented by the national government and the province, and let us expose any irregularities to be found,” he said in Filipino during the oath taking in Malacañang of the new LPP officers led by South Cotabato Gov. Reynaldo Tamayo Jr., reelected national president; Quirino Gov. Dakila Carlo Cua, reelected national chairman; and Pampanga Gov. Lilia Pineda, executive vice president,
Marcos said public funds are meant for the welfare of the nation and not for personal gain and expressed hope the local executives will join the fight against corruption, including reviewing the projects.
The President said the country needs honest leadership to finally end wrongdoings, and governors should serve as the guide, the voice and conscience especially amid challenges being faced by the nation.
“My fellow public servants, we are here because the people trusted us. We should not fail them,” he said.
During the event, the President recognized the LPP’s long-standing commitment to public service, unity, and nation-building.
He also acknowledged the support they provide to the national government, from digitalization efforts to implementation of agriculture programs, and immediate response during times of crisis, among others.
He asked the local executives to continue assisting the national government particularly in the implementation of the zero-balance billing program in local hospitals.
The program is being implemented in 78 health facilities under the Department of Health.
Under the program, patients confined in basic or ward accommodations are not required to pay hospital bills.
CALL FOR DECENCY
Fr Flaviano Villanueva, a recipient of the Ramon Magsaysay Awards 2025, asked the public to bring back decency in the Filipino culture, and be more caring for their neighbors’ welfare.
“Let’s bring back decency in our lives and have it ingrained in our culture,” he said in an online briefing.
Villanueva issued the appeal amid the controversy allegedly involving government officials and private contractors in anomalous and “ghost” flood control projects.
Villanueva said the poor and marginalized sectors are directly affected by the anomalies which have resulted in massive floodings.
“It’s been systematic and, definitely, the homeless and those living in the shanties are greatly affected by these,” he said.
Villanueva, as RM awardee, was credited for founding the Arnold Janssen Kalinga Center in Manila that provides dignified care and service to indigent and powerless citizens, including the homeless. – With Gerard Naval
