Protests Erupt Over Trillion-Peso Corruption Scandal

Protests Erupt Over Trillion-Peso Corruption Scandal

By Bing Jabadan & Wilma Yamzon – TheNationWeek.Com | September 18, 2025

MANILA, Philippines – Public outrage has engulfed the country, igniting nationwide protests set for Sunday, (Sept. 21, 2025) in response to explosive allegations of corruption involving former House Speaker Martin Romualdez and Rep. Elizaldy Co.

The scandal, estimated to involve trillions of pesos, has not only fueled demands for accountability but also triggered calls for the resignation of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Romualdez’s cousin.

The protests, organized across major cities, are targeting what many perceive as a brazen abuse of power and a betrayal of public trust.

Critics accuse Romualdez of exploiting his position to siphon off national resources, exacerbating poverty and undermining the livelihoods of ordinary Filipinos.

The specter of the Marcos dictatorship, notorious for its alleged corruption and its devastating impact on the nation’s economy, looms large, fostering a climate of heightened public scrutiny and zero tolerance for graft.

At the center of the controversy are accusations that Romualdez, allegedly in collusion with Co, diverted billions of pesos earmarked for vital flood control projects.

These funds, intended to protect vulnerable communities from devastating floods, were purportedly funneled into the coffers of corrupt contractors through a complex web of illicit deals.

The investigation is reportedly focusing on Romualdez’s alleged acquisition of two Gulfstream private jets: a pre-owned G150 valued at approximately $8 million and a G550 worth up to $35 million, reportedly purchased from prominent businessman Lucio Tan.

These acquisitions, if proven, would starkly contrast with the economic struggles faced by many Filipinos.

Co, CEO of Sunwest Group of Companies and Chairman of the Board of Misibis Bay Resort, is also facing intense scrutiny.

His construction companies have reportedly secured a staggering ₱15.7 billion in flood control contracts between 2022 and 2025.

Adding to the suspicion, reports indicate that Co is attempting to move his fleet of luxury jets and helicopters abroad.

Documents reportedly show Misibis Aviation & Development Corp. initiating the deregistration of its Gulfstream G350, valued at $36 million.

The disparity between the alleged extravagance of Romualdez and Co and the persistent poverty in provinces like Leyte, where Romualdez is the congressman, has further inflamed public anger.

Despite the powerful position of Romualdez as House Speaker and the substantial flood control contracts awarded to Co’s firms, Leyte remains one of the poorest provinces in the Philippines, raising questions about the effectiveness and integrity of government projects.

The unfolding scandal represents a significant challenge for the Marcos administration, demanding a decisive and transparent response.