Category: Philippines Daily Inquirer

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday urged government officials to strengthen integrity and credibility in public service.

Speaking to newly elected and appointed officials of the League of Vice Governors of the Philippines in a ceremony in Malacañan Palace, Marcos stressed that ‘unscrupulous abuse of power and greed must come to an end.’

‘Many Filipinos are frustrated by the layer upon layer of issues that plague them every day,’ Marcos said in Filipino.

‘Our people are exhausted, they are disappointed, and they are angry. And as I have said before, their rage is valid. It is born from years of frustration at a government characterized by systemic dysfunction and unfulfilled promises,’ he added.

The President also called on leaders to ‘confront’ the anger of the public and be humbled enough to provide concrete solutions to the nation’s problems.

‘Let us not dismiss their anger. Let us confront it. Let us be humbled and provide concrete solutions. Alam naman natin ang mga mali, kaya dapat nating itama,’ President Marcos said.

Marcos also underscored his administration’s commitment to eradicating entrenched corruption, implementing useful reforms, and delivering an honest and accountable government.

The Anti-Money Laundering Council secured a third freeze order against individuals tied to flood control controversy, building on two earlier directives and collectively paralyzing 1,563 bank accounts, 54 insurance policies, 154 vehicles, 30 properties and 12 e-wallets.

The third order, granted by the Court of Appeals on Sept. 30, covered 836 bank accounts, 12 e-wallets, 24 insurance policies, 81 motor vehicles and 12 real estate properties, marking the most extensive asset freeze since the probe began.

‘By freezing a wide range of assets-such as bank accounts, e-wallets, vehicles, and properties-the AMLC is disrupting the financial channels used in corrupt activities,’ said AMLC Executive Director Matthew M. David.

‘Our goal is straightforward: prevent stolen public funds from being dissipated and misused, recover them for the National Government, and ensure that those involved in money laundering are held accountable,’ David added.