Lacson: Gov’t at risk of losing funds to corruption in 1st half of 2022

Sen. Panfilo “Ping” Lacson

MANILA, Philippines — Public funds are at “high risk” of being lost to corruption in the first half of 2022 unless the outgoing Duterte administration applies the same rules to both its “allies” and “enemies” ahead of the May elections, Sen. Panfilo Lacson said on Friday.

Lacson, who is running for president under Partido Reporma, warned that the government’s “selective approach” in fighting corruption would undercut its programs in the last six months of President Rodrigo Duterte’s term, especially with the rehabilitation of communities devastated by Typhoon Odette (international name: Rai) now underway.

“The administration first has to tend to the victims of Odette. But it should also make sure that in its fight against corruption, only one standard is followed,” Lacson said in a radio interview.

He lamented how the administration had applied different standards for its political allies and rivals.

Such a selective approach to fighting corruption “is undermining its efforts to implement its programs,” Lacson said.

There should be adherence to the rule of law; “otherwise, we’re lost as a country,” he said.

Lacson said the Filipino people could also make a difference in the next six years — when they elect their new leaders on May 9.

“We should discern well. We are responsible for choosing who will lead us,” the senator said.