Concerned that some public funds have been lost to corruption, President Duterte is determined to take a hands-on approach in implementing development projects in Sulu and Basilan.
The President said he would “supervise” and “help and do it” to ensure corruption-free construction of hospitals, roads, and other projects in these two provinces. “Itong dito sa Jolo, pati Basilan, it will be undertaken by the Office of the President and it will be handled by the military. At ako mismo ang magtingin doon, the hospitals and all. Otherwise, walang dadating doon,” the President said in a recent anti-corruption summit in Malacañang.
“I’m not casting any aspersion but that’s the cold reality. It’s either I do not help, I will withhold the money or help and do it,” said Duterte who has promised to eliminate corruption during his term.
The President expressed dismay with the corruption practices plaguing some infrastructure projects handled by the local government level.
Citing an example, Duterte said a local map shows a highway intersection project as “certified completed project.”
“Pumunta ka doon, anak ng jueteng. Isang highway lang sa tabing dagat pa,” an exasperated President said.
(Genalyn D. Kabiling)