The filing of plunder charges against Speaker Martin Romualdez, former Rep. Zaldy Co, and two others, though long overdue, is a welcome development. Since last year, the people have demanded accountability for the massive theft and misuse of flood control and infrastructure funds. Better late than never.
But the alleged plunder cannot begin and end with Romualdez and Co. A conspiracy of this magnitude could not have been carried out by just two or four individuals. The testimonies and revelations of Co and DPWH Usec. Roberto Bernardo point to a much wider network of officials involved. Most seriously, Pres. Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s own role and that he himself tolerated and benefited from the scheme. These allegations must be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted. However, the highly questionable dropping of DPWH Sec. Manuel Bonoan from a related plunder and graft case points in a different direction.
We hope that the plunder case against Romualdez and Co is airtight and backed by evidence strong enough to withstand both legal and political pressure. Sana hindi pakitang-tao. Sana hindi isang consuelo de bobo na madi-dismiss din kalaunan.
The government must follow the money, identify every official and private individual who participated in or benefited from the scheme, and ensure they are punished. Walang dapat protektahan. Walang dapat ligtas dahil lang makapangyarihan, may koneksyon, o nakatira sa Malacañang.
We likewise challenge Romualdez and Co: tell all. They should reveal the full extent of the conspiracy. Who ordered what, who received what, how much money, and where the money went. Ilabas ang lahat ng ebidensya. The Filipino people deserve the whole truth, not another selective prosecution designed to sacrifice a few while protecting others.
Lastly, we call on the people to sustain the protest against corruption and for systemic changes in governance. As we approach the anniversary of the Baha sa Luneta and Trillion People March protests this September 21, let us remember that it is only through militant and collective action that we can achieve accountability and justice.