“Beneath the vibrant façade of the forthcoming MassKara Festival in Bacolod City, lies a tale of corruption and deceit. The flood control projects meant to protect the city from the wrath of nature have become a symbol of graft and mismanagement,” Wennie Sancho, People’s Coalition for Good Governance (PCGG) convenor said in a statement,
Sancho avers that in the shadows, powerful individuals and companies allegedly colluded to siphon off millions of pesos meant for these vital projects. Some observers alleged that MKU Construction and Legacy Construction, two companies with ties to influential figures, were awarded lucrative contracts despite questionable practices.
As the projects progressed, concerns grew about their quality and effectiveness. The Bacolod City Esplanade, a P37.2-million project was completed in 2019, but has since fallen into disrepair. Residents whisper about the substandard materials used and the lack of proper oversight, his statement said.
Sancho laments that the people of Bacolod City suffer the consequences. Floods continue to ravage the city, causing damage to properties and disrupting lives. The lack of effective flood control measures puts thousands at risk and the city’s development is hindered by corruption.
The flood control projects scandal serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of corruption. PCGG has issued a call to action urging the citizens to demand transparency and accountability from their leaders, he said adding that “Our local officials should spearhead the investigation to determine whether they are involved or not and to assert their honesty in public service. Only through collective efforts can the truth be revealed and justice served.”
Sancho strongly believes that the people of Bacolod City will rise above the corruption and their voices shall echo through the halls of power demanding a better future for themselves and their children. The truth will be told and those responsible will be held accountable.
“Let our voices be heard. No one is above the law. From the President down to the lowly janitor in the government. We are all creatures of the law and are bound to obey the law in order to give meaning and honor to the maxim that ‘Public office is a public trust’,” he added.*
