Former Ilocos Sur Governor Chavit Singson on Monday challenged President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez to a public debate over alleged corruption in government.
“Honorable Bongbong Marcos ang Speaker Martin Romualdez, with your permission, I’m going to Malacañang alone to challenge you into a debate about this press (conference) with all the media as a witness,” Singson said at a press briefing.
He questioned why the two officials remain in power despite corruption allegations, particularly involving the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
Singson also urged religious groups to unite in a “one time big time rally” against corruption, adding, “I believe in God. I believe in miracles. I believe that Marcos will be ousted.”
Malacañang dismissed the challenge, with Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro stressing that fighting corruption requires action, not debates.
“Ang paglaban sa korapsyon ay hindi dinadaan sa debate kundi sa pag aksyon para mapanagot ang dapat mapanagot. At iyan ang ginagawa ng Pangulo ngayon,” she said.
Castro further criticized former President Rodrigo Duterte, recalling his admission of ghost projects but failure to pursue a wide investigation.
“Mas kahanga-hanga kung noon pa sila naghamon ng debate about corruption nung umamin ang dating Pangulong Duterte na siya ay corrupt at nagnakaw sa kaban ng bayan at nung aminin niyang puno ng ghost projects sa panahon niya pero wala namang nagawang malawakang pag-iimbestiga patungkol rito,” she added.
The Palace underscored that accountability measures, not public debates, remain the administration’s focus in addressing corruption.