IN a bold stance against deep-seated corruption in government, Las Piñas Rep. Mark Anthony Santos declared today his unwavering commitment to combat impunity, promote transparency, and uphold accountability in public service.
Santos emphasized that corruption remains one of the gravest threats to Philippine democracy, development, and public trust. He vowed to push for stronger anti-corruption mechanisms, full transparency in budget utilization, and institutional reforms to ensure that no official, regardless of position or influence, is above the law.
“Ang tunay na serbisyo publiko ay hindi para sa pansariling interes, kundi para sa kapakanan ng taumbayan,” said Santos. “Walang makapangyarihang pangalan o pamilyang dapat takasan ang pananagutan.”
Santos also expressed his full support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s firm position against allies and public officials found engaging in anomalous transactions, particularly in flood control projects.
Santos, who has been vocal about irregularities in multi-million-peso infrastructure and flood control projects in Las Piñas, welcomed President Marcos’ recent actions and statements, including his “Mahiya naman kayo” remark during the State of the Nation Address (SONA) last July 28.
“The President’s commitment to fight corruption, especially in the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), deserves the full support of Congress and the Filipino people,” Santos said.
“We owe it to our constituents to ensure that public funds are used for genuine, high-quality infrastructure — not for defective or overpriced projects that benefit only a few.”
The first-term lawmaker raised alarm over what he described as “systemic tolerance of corrupt practices,” particularly in the implementation of infrastructure projects, budget insertions, and undisclosed joint ventures between local and national agencies.
Santos underscored the need for independent investigations, timely audits, and public disclosure of government projects, especially those involving large-scale spending or private partnerships.
The assistant majority floor leader also reiterated his support for the Freedom of Information (FOI) Bill and stronger whistleblower protection laws.
The Las Piñas solon recently backed calls for full transparency in the use of confidential and intelligence funds, and advocated for tighter monitoring of government contractors and suppliers, many of whom are allegedly repeat violators of procurement laws.
Santos called on fellow lawmakers, civil society groups, and the general public to form a united front against corruption.
“If we truly want a better future for the next generation, we must break the cycle of impunity. Corruption is not just stealing money—it’s stealing lives, education, healthcare, and dignity,” he said.
Rep. Santos pledged to file a series of legislative measures aimed at institutionalizing budget transparency, real-time reporting of infrastructure projects, and citizen-led monitoring.
“Hindi ako hihinto hangga’t may pananagutan ang bawat gumamit ng pondo ng bayan para sa pansariling kapakinabangan. Hindi ito laban ng isang tao lang—ito’y laban ng buong bayan.”
