MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. personally launched the investigation into irregularities in flood control projects, a move that has led to arrests, filed cases, and efforts to recover public funds, Malacañang said.

Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said the President’s directive demonstrates a strong commitment to holding accountable those involved in the scheme.

“Tandaan natin, ang Pangulo ang nagpasimula nito. Hindi mabubukas ang ating isipan, hindi mabubukas ang ating mga mata, hindi mabubukas ang ating tenga kung hindi mismo si Pangulong Marcos Jr. ang nagpasimula ng pag-iimbestiga na ito,” Castro said during a press briefing.

“Nais ng Pangulo na managot ang dapat na managot,” she added.

According to Castro, the Office of the Ombudsman has filed charges and detained several individuals allegedly involved in ghost and anomalous flood control projects, months after President Marcos’ Fourth State of the Nation Address on July 28.

The cases were recommended by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), which the President tasked with investigating infrastructure projects over the past decade and gathering evidence against those who misused public funds.

Castro said the President’s decisive actions demonstrate his resolve to pursue accountability.

“Siya ang nagpaimbestiga, hanggang ngayon ay maraming ginagawang aksyon para mapanagot ang dapat na mapanagot. Ang dami na napaaresto, marami na rin na kinasuhan, marami na naibalik na pondo,” she said.

She added that several high-profile and influential individuals have already been charged and arrested as a result of the ongoing investigations.