Malacañang on Friday, December 26 said more arrests are expected in the New Year as the investigation into anomalous flood control projects gains momentum, dismissing criticism that the administration failed to jail major figures before Christmas.
Presidential Communications Office Secretary Dave Gomez said the probe remains in its early stages, stressing that large-scale corruption cases involving huge public funds take time to build and prosecute.
“Some quarters are calling the Discaya couple as the new Napoles but their unexplained wealth is ten times over. Both spent Christmas in detention,” Gomez said, noting that authorities have already acted against key figures linked to the alleged anomalies.
He rejected claims that the investigation stalled after the holidays, saying work continued past December 25 and is set to intensify in the coming weeks.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. earlier vowed to jail those behind the anomalies “before Christmas,” but critics argued the promise fell short as only private contractors, district engineers and regional DPWH officials have been arrested so far.
“The flood control investigation does not end on Dec. 25. It’s only been a little over four months. The Napoles probe took almost a year before people were sent to jail,” Gomez said.
With cases now being firmed up, Gomez said the public should expect further developments soon.
“There will surely be more thrown behind bars in the New Year,” he added.
The Palace reiterated its commitment to holding both contractors and government officials accountable, signaling tougher action in the months ahead.