Ex-Marines Expose P805 Billion Flood Control Scam, Implicate President in Massive Corruption
In a stunning revelation that has sent shockwaves through the nation, the government's claim of cleanliness is rapidly fading like a distant dream. This follows a press conference held on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, where Atty. Levito Baligod, alongside 18 former members of the Philippine Marines, exposed allegations of a multi-billion peso scam involving flood control projects.
A Betrayal of Public Trust
The staggering amount of P805 billion represents a profound betrayal of the Filipino people's trust. While citizens suffer from devastating floods and widespread poverty, tax money intended for public welfare is alleged to have been funneled into suitcases destined for powerful elites. Most alarmingly, the accused mastermind is the highest official in the country—the President.
Instead of being allocated for job creation and industrial development, these billions are claimed to have been looted by corrupt individuals. This systemic corruption is cited as a key reason why the Philippines remains mired in poverty and high unemployment rates.
A Contrast with Singapore's Success
When compared to neighboring Singapore, the Philippines' situation appears particularly bleak. After gaining independence in 1963, Singapore did not waste time. Their funds were strategically invested in genuine progress:
- Infrastructure: They built industrial parks and roads to attract investors.
- Education: They invested in vocational training to develop a skilled workforce.
The result: Singapore transformed from a third-world nation to a first-world country within just three decades. If the P805 billion had been similarly invested for national development, many could have benefited, rather than lining the pockets of a few. Singapore's success serves as clear evidence that proper fund management can alter a nation's destiny.
Corroborating Testimonies Add Weight
In the Philippines, the opposite has occurred, with funds allegedly misused. The accusations from the 18 ex-Marines carry significant weight because they corroborate earlier testimony from former Marine Sgt. Orly Guteza in September 2025.
This suggests a high likelihood that Atty. Baligod's claims are true and not fabricated, as they align with Sergeant Guteza's previous statements before his 18 colleagues came forward. On September 25, Guteza read his sworn statement before the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing regarding anomalies in flood control projects.
In his sworn affidavit presented to the Senate blue ribbon committee on September 25, Guteza stated that he delivered suitcases filled with cash to the homes of resigned Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co and Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez.
