Manila, Philippines — October 6, 2025
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed surprise upon learning that a key standard procedure—previously serving as a safeguard against corruption in government infrastructure projects—had been removed during the previous administration.
In a recent podcast interview, President Marcos revealed that for nearly a decade, the implementation of national government projects had deviated from established protocols meant to ensure accountability and quality.
The President recalled his experience as governor of Ilocos Norte, emphasizing that local government officials once played an important role in reviewing and certifying the quality of infrastructure projects carried out by national agencies within their jurisdictions.
According to Marcos, contractors were not paid unless local governments signed off on the project’s acceptance documents, a measure that compelled builders to correct defects and complete their work properly. “That system worked as a safeguard—local officials ensured that projects met proper standards before payment was released,” he explained.
Marcos lamented that this process had been discontinued, weakening oversight and increasing the risk of inefficiency or corruption in project implementation.
The President also acknowledged that modern technologies could play a major role in restoring transparency and strengthening data management for national budgets and infrastructure initiatives. He suggested that digital monitoring tools could help ensure that public funds are used efficiently and that projects are completed according to approved standards.
Marcos reiterated his administration’s commitment to rebuilding trust in government processes, stating that restoring accountability mechanisms is essential to maintaining public confidence in national development programs.