President Bongbong Marcos acknowledged that public trust in the government—particularly in holding individuals accountable for corruption related to anomalous flood control projects—has significantly eroded.
In a press conference on Monday, November 24, the President expressed hope that recent arrests would gradually rebuild confidence among Filipinos, noting that several individuals involved in the controversy are now behind bars.
“This will satisfy our need, our desire. That people now have no faith in. Walang katiwa-tiwala ngayon ang taumbayan hindi ko naman sila masisi. Wala silang tiwala sa sistema ngayon, ay sana naman eto, ay maibalik natin ang kumpiyansa ng ating mga kababayan ng ating mga kababayan sa ating pamahalaan,” Marcos said.
He added, “I know it is just a first step, but it is just a first step. We will keep going.”
Earlier that same morning, the President announced that several suspects had already been apprehended, while authorities continue to pursue others previously charged.
“Pito na po sa mga indibidwal na may warrant of arrest sa Sandiganbayan kaugnay sa [flood-control anomalies] ang nasa kustodiya na ng ating mga awtoridad,” he said, explaining that six surrendered to the Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), while one was arrested by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).
He further clarified: “Isa naman sa kanila ang inaresto ng NBI at anim naman ay boluntaryong sumuko sa CIDG. Mayroon ding dalawang akusado na nagpahayag ng intensyon na sumuko at susundin na ang PNP-CIDG.”
The President also sent a message to former Ako Bicol Partylist Representative Zaldy Co, considered one of the high-profile suspects still being tracked by authorities.
“Umuwi siya rito. Harapin niya ‘yong mga kaso n’ya. Kung mayroon siyang gustong sabihin, sabihin n’ya. Malalaman naman ng tao ‘yan,” he urged.
“But come home. Ba’t ka nagtatago sa malayo?” he added.