Flood control projects: breach of social contract?

PHILIPPINES - Report 09 Sep 2025 by Diwa Guinigundo

Between 2011 and 2025, the Philippines allocated nearly ₱1.9 trillion to flood control projects, yet flooding has worsened due to pervasive corruption. Investigations reveal that as little as 40 percent of project funds reach implementation, with the rest siphoned off by politicians, DPWH officials, contractors, auditors, and other intermediaries. Ghost projects, substandard infrastructure, and cartelized contracting have been documented across provinces, notably Bulacan and Oriental Mindoro. The economic costs include reduced disaster resilience, lost opportunity for investment in human capital and connectivity, and weakened investor confidence. Politically, the scandals risk triggering mass unrest, recalling historical episodes of people power. Remedies include an empowered anti-corruption commission, rigorous application of forfeiture laws, stricter campaign finance rules, and independent audits involving civil society. Without decisive reforms, corruption in flood control will remain not only a fiscal drain but also a fundamental barrier to inclusive economic growth.

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