Akbayan Partylist Representative Chel Diokno has urged the government to ensure full transparency following President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s declaration placing the entire Philippines under a State of National Calamity for one year due to the devastation caused by Typhoon Tino, particularly in Cebu and other parts of the Visayas.
In a Facebook post on Wednesday, November 12, Diokno emphasized that the declaration must come hand in hand with transparency and accountability.
“Ngayong dineklara na ang State of National Calamity, dapat sabayan din ng State of FULL TRANSPARENCY,” he said.
He further warned of the possible recurrence of corruption scandals if transparency measures are not implemented.
“Kung walang transparency, hindi lang baha ang uulit—pati Pharmally at flood control corruption. Kailangang malinaw ang bawat sentimo at kontrata: i-publish online lahat ng negotiated contracts, bawal bigyan ng proyekto ang undercapitalized o fly-by-night na kompanya, at magkaroon ng independent audits at regular public reports sa paggamit ng calamity funds,” Diokno added.
He also called for the inclusion of local government units (LGUs) and affected communities in monitoring and decision-making, the establishment of a sunset clause to limit emergency powers, and the creation of reporting channels for citizens to report abuse.
The State of National Calamity was declared to expedite the release of emergency funds and streamline the procurement process for relief supplies and rehabilitation efforts.