Filipinos Flood Streets to Demand Justice Over Billions Lost in Flood-Control Scandal

Mass Protests Erupt in Manila Over Flood-Control Corruption Scandal Thousands of Filipinos took to the streets of Manila on Sunday to vent their anger over a ballooning scandal involving bogus flood-control projects that have cost taxpayers billions of dollars. The protests, which were largely peaceful but marred by small-scale violence, marked the latest chapter in a growing crisis of public trust in the government. According to eyewitnesses and police reports, some 17 people were arrested during the demonstrations, mostly young men who threw rocks and bottles at police near Malacanang Palace. The protesters, many of whom wore yellow ribbons symbolizing opposition to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr's administration, chanted slogans and waved placards demanding justice for what they called "ghost infrastructure projects." "I'm here today because I want accountability from our government," said Maria Rodriguez, a 32-year-old teacher who participated in the protests. "We need to know where our taxes are going, and why these fake projects are being pushed through." The scandal has been brewing since President Marcos Jr's State of the Nation address in July, which highlighted weeks of deadly flooding that left thousands homeless. Critics have accused the government of using the flood-control projects as a means to siphon off public funds for personal gain. Marcos Jr himself acknowledged the growing discontent on Friday, saying he did not blame people for protesting one bit, while calling for demonstrations to remain peaceful. "We understand their frustration and anger," he said in a statement. "But we must ensure that our protests are conducted in a way that does not harm anyone or damage public property." The Philippines is no stranger to corruption scandals, but the scale of this latest controversy has sparked widespread outrage. According to estimates by government auditors, some $3 billion has been spent on flood-control projects that have yet to be completed or even started. "This scandal is a symptom of a deeper problem - the lack of transparency and accountability in our government," said Senator Risa Hontiveros, who has been leading calls for an investigation into the allegations. "We need to get to the bottom of this and ensure that those responsible are held accountable." The protests on Sunday were part of a growing movement that has seen thousands take to social media to demand justice and transparency from their government. As the crisis deepens, international observers have begun to weigh in on the situation. "This is not just a domestic issue for the Philippines," said a spokesperson for Amnesty International. "It's a global concern about the erosion of trust in institutions and the rule of law." The Philippine government has promised to investigate the allegations and provide answers to the public. But as the protests continue, one thing is clear: the people will not be silenced until they get the truth. In related news, President Marcos Jr is set to address a joint session of Congress on Tuesday to discuss the flood-control projects and other pressing issues facing the country. The move has been seen as an attempt by the government to regain public trust and calm the growing storm of protests. *Reporting by Aljazeera.*