No Flood Control, Just a Flood of Protests: Philippines Erupts Over Corruption Scandal
These past weeks have seen a wave of protests erupting around the world, all largely driven by frustration over corruption. In Indonesia, protests over the increase of lawmakers' housing stipend led to violent clashes and the death of a young taxi driver that only fueled the nation’s rage. Following violent demonstrations in Indonesia and Nepal, the Philippines has become the latest hotspot, with citizens taking to the streets to voice their anger.
On September 21, tens of thousands of protesters marched through Manila and cities across the nation to demand accountability over a massive corruption scandal tied to flood control projects. The controversy has been building since July, when President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. highlighted the so-called “ghost projects” in his annual State of the Nation address.
Corruption has long been an issue in the Philippines, but these protests focus on one particular problem: the mismanagement of flood control contracts. Reports suggest that many of these projects were used by lawmakers to funnel funds into personal or political interests, while critical infrastructure either remained incomplete or never materialized. Estimates suggest the Philippine economy could have lost as much as £1.48 billion ($1.8 billion) due to corruption in these contracts. Recent investigations have highlighted that for the past 6 years, most flood control projects were overpriced or substandard to give large kickbacks to politicians. The implications of these corrupt flood projects goes beyond money. The Philippines is especially susceptible to typhoons which lead to widespread flooding. In July, a typhoon hit the country, causing massive floods and landslides, killing at least 25 people, and affecting millions. Therefore it is understandable that upon hearing of mass corruption in the project for flood control, people are angry. After all, as quoted by Philippine Representative Elajiah San Fernando, “When flood control fails, the ordinary Filipino gets to be hurt first”.
While most demonstrations were peaceful, some escalated into violence, with protesters throwing rocks and Molotov cocktails at police. Videos showed police getting into clashes with demonstrators. Similar to Indonesia, the “One-Piece” Jolly Roger Flag, which has become a Gen-Z symbol for resistance, was seen in the streets.
There’s also a historical layer to these protests. Over fifty years ago, on the same date in 1972, Ferdinand Marcos Sr., the late president and Marcos Jr.’s father, declared martial law, beginning an authoritarian regime that lasted until 1986. Despite calls for resignation, Marcos Jr. has expressed support for the protesters’ right to voice their anger. He stated, “Of course, they are enraged. Of course, they are angry. I’m angry. We should all be angry. Because what’s happening is not right.”
Corruption is an issue that continues to persist in Southeast Asia. Yet these protests have highlighted that citizens are not accepting these trends and are demanding change. With three countries experiencing protests, albeit for slightly different reasons, leaders in the region must step up in order to preserve the trust in political institutions and appease their populations.