Philippines investigates Manila Bay reclamation and flood-control corruption

Lawmakers and investigators in the Philippines are scrutinizing the relationship between massive reclamation projects in Manila Bay and the increasing severity of flooding in Metro Manila and surrounding provinces. House Deputy Minority Leader Perci Cendaña has called for a formal study to determine if these reclamation activities contribute to slower floodwater recession during heavy rainfall.

Simultaneously, the government's anti-corruption efforts have intensified following the detention of former House Speaker Martin Romualdez regarding alleged irregularities in flood-control projects. The Ombudsman is preparing multiple cases against him, while authorities seek to bring former Representative Zaldy Co back to the country to face charges related to alleged ‘ghost’ flood-control projects. While these legal actions aim to address accountability, public concern remains high regarding the effectiveness of actual flood-mitigation infrastructure and the recurring threat of natural disasters.