Wealthy offspring of flood control officials enjoy opulent lifestyles while ordinary taxpayers face the brunt of floods
In the Philippines, a controversy is brewing over allegations of "ghost" flood control projects and links between lawmakers and their previously held construction firms. The issue has led to a call for accountability and a lifestyle check on government officials, particularly those from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
One content creator at the centre of this controversy is Claudine Co, who is the daughter of Christopher Co, the founder of Hi-Tone Construction & Development Corporation. Hi-Tone is one of the top 15 contractors identified by Malacanang for cornering 1 in every 5 flood control projects in the country between 2022 and 2025. Claudine, known for her lifestyle and food videos, ran an Instagram account called "clauds.style" that detailed her outfits with corresponding brands and price tags. One of her posts showcased a Chanel Small Boy Handbag worth $6,700 or approximately P382,184.72.
Claudine is not alone in this controversy. Jammy Cruz, another content creator, is the daughter of Noel Cruz, the owner of Sto. Cristo Construction and Trading Incorporation. Sto. Cristo has secured 45 flood control project contracts with an estimated cost of P3.5 billion between 2022 and 2025. Cruz shared in a vlog that she was gifted a luxury car by her father.
The controversy has led to massive criticism online, resulting in the deactivation of Claudine Co's YouTube channel and social media accounts, as well as Jammy Cruz's YouTube channel.
John Coby Cabuhat, the Policy Advocacy Director of GoodGovPH, stated that public officials are expected to lead modest lives according to Republic Act No. 6713. Cabuhat called on the public to end this behavior of the wealthy and powerful and to seek accountability. The quote: "Do not emulate them because the luxury they're showing comes from every sweat and struggle of the people. Filipinos do not deserve this."
This controversy comes at a time when Filipinos continue to bear the brunt of failed and anomalous flood control projects that result in homes lost and livelihoods affected. The President, Ferdinand Marcos Jr., has ordered a lifestyle check on all government officials in response to these allegations.
Other contractors on Malacanang's list include Centerways Construction and Development Incorporated, which is top 7 on the list, and Sunwest Incorporated, co-founded by Ako Bicol Representative Zaldy Co, Claudine Co's uncle. Lawrence Lubiano, the President of Centerways Construction and Development Incorporated, is said to be the son of Walter Lubiano, a former DPWH district engineer.
The children of these flood control contractors have been accused of using taxpayers' money for their luxurious lifestyle. Jeane Napoles, the younger daughter of Janet Lim-Napoles, was also criticized for her high-end fashion and trips to countries like Paris and Tokyo.
As the controversy continues, the public awaits further investigation and accountability from those involved in the flood control projects and their alleged misuse of taxpayers' money.
