Manila: Hospital chaplains and chaplaincy ministers of the University of the Philippines – Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH) on Monday joined the national outcry against corruption in government infrastructure projects. In a radio interview, Fr. Marlito Ocon, SJ, UP-PGH head chaplain, emphasized the direct impact of corruption on hospitals and health services, particularly affecting the poor and sick.
According to Philippines News Agency, Ocon stated that the theft of public funds meant for roads, hospitals, schools, and flood control projects results in suffering for the people. He conveyed this message during a discussion on Church-run Radio Veritas, highlighting the visible impact of corruption through inadequate facilities, lack of medicines, and insufficient medical staff in hospitals. Ocon urged the public to use this issue as motivation to vote for honest leaders and reject bribery, expressing that their anger stems from love for the people, the poor, and the truth.
In response to the corruption issues, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signed Executive Order 94 on September 11, establishing the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI). This independent fact-finding body will investigate alleged irregularities in government flood control and other infrastructure projects.
Additionally, civil leader Dr. Jose Antonio Goitia addressed claims about Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong’s resignation from the ICI, denying any pressure from Marcos. Goitia, head of the Alyansa ng Bantay sa Kapayapaan at Demokrasya (ABKD), stated that Magalong’s resignation was a personal, principled decision to maintain the integrity of the anti-corruption fight.
Magalong resigned as a special adviser to the ICI on September 26, citing concerns over a potential conflict of interest. Despite stepping down, Malaca±ang assured that Magalong’s assistance remains welcome. President Marcos has appointed former Philippine National Police chief Rodolfo Azurin Jr. as Magalong’s replacement.