Corruption Probe Bias: 'Cong-Traktors' Investigate Rival's Funds
In a controversial twist, the issue of corruption has become heavily politicized, with congressmen allied to the administration allegedly prioritizing the scrutiny of Vice President Inday Sara's 150 million peso confidential funds while downplaying the billion-peso ghost flood control projects scandal. What makes this situation particularly alarming is that the very congressmen accused of involvement in the multi-billion peso flood control scandal, often labeled as "cong-traktors," are now tasked with investigating Sara's alleged misuse of funds.
This raises a critical question: is this not akin to thieves investigating theft? The irony is stark, as those implicated in massive corruption are leading probes against a political rival, potentially undermining justice and accountability.
Flood Control Scandal: A Forgotten Investigation?
What has happened to the investigation into the flood control projects, where billions of pesos were reportedly misused? Recall that in his 2023 State of the Nation Address (SONA), President BBM touted flood control as an achievement of his administration, only to be contradicted when severe floods exposed ghost projects. The information for BBM's speech likely came from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), as secretaries typically provide success data ahead of SONAs.
When the scandal erupted, BBM issued sharp criticisms, but who exactly was he targeting? Why have congressmen, who approved the billion-peso budgets for these projects, remained silent? This silence fuels suspicions of complicity or neglect in oversight.
'Cong-Traktors': Profiteers in the Shadows
According to sources like Lacson, 67 congressmen are involved in the scandalous flood control projects, earning the nickname "cong-traktors" because they not only secure billions in projects but also directly profit from them as contractors in their districts. These individuals have reportedly amassed significant wealth, with more money lining their pockets than being spent on actual infrastructure, exacerbating public distrust.
Yet, their current status raises further questions: where are they now, and how are they evading accountability? Notably, figures such as Tinio, De Lima, and Co, who are also in Congress, have not raised strong objections against their colleagues, hinting at possible political alliances or fear of backlash. This inaction underscores a broader culture of impunity and political maneuvering that hampers genuine anti-corruption efforts in the Philippines.
