PPP Rep. Duterte backs charges vs those linked to flood control scandal

MANILA, Philippines — Puwersa ng Pilipinong Pandagat (PPP) party-list Rep. Harold Duterte welcomed the recent developments involving those linked to the flood control mess but stressed that what the country needs now is “not symbolic progress, but swift, comprehensive, and uncompromising action.”

Duterte — the nephew of former President Rodrigo Duterte — issued the statement after authorities announced the filing of charges against former Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co and 15 others, as well as the recent arrest and surrender of eight individuals linked to the alleged anomalous flood control project in Oriental Mindoro.

READ: Zaldy Co denies getting kickbacks, says funds only passed through him

“We welcome the filing of charges and the arrest of those implicated in the flood-control corruption scandal. We likewise take note of the auction of the luxury vehicles that became symbols of excess at the expense of the Filipino people,” Duterte said on Monday.

“However, these are only early steps in a very long journey toward genuine accountability. What this country needs is not symbolic progress, but swift, comprehensive, and uncompromising action,” he added.

According to the lawmaker, the public needs to witness not only the prosecution of “foot soldiers” but also the “masterminds, beneficiaries, and protectors” of corruption.

“I call on the Department of Justice, the Independent Commission for Infrastructure, the Office of the Ombudsman, and all agencies involved to remember the oath we all swore: to bear true faith and allegiance to the Republic of the Philippines,” he said.

“I urge everyone to remain vigilant. These developments, while welcome, must not lull us into complacency. The work is far from over. We expect this investigation and prosecution to proceed fearlessly and impartially, reaching all those responsible — regardless of rank, power, or political connection,” he added. Halle Danelle Yuson, INQUIRER.net intern /jpv