Marcos cuts costs for farm roads and hospitals

President Marcos Jr. Orders Cost Reduction for Government Projects to Combat Corruption

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has taken a significant step towards addressing corruption within the government by directing several agencies to reduce construction costs for essential infrastructure projects such as classrooms, hospitals, and other public facilities. This move comes as part of his broader strategy to ensure transparency and accountability in government operations.

The president made this announcement on Thursday, October 30, during a meeting with his Cabinet secretaries. He emphasized that the government must be cleansed of corruption to build a fair and just economy. “Only a transparent government can build a fair economy,” he stated, highlighting the importance of integrity in public service.

This directive builds upon a previous order given to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), which was instructed to cut construction costs by 50%. Now, the Department of Education, Department of Agriculture, Department of Health, and other relevant agencies are also required to implement similar cost-cutting measures.

Several legislators have voiced concerns about the rising costs of classroom construction and farm-to-market roads, attributing the high expenses to alleged corruption schemes. These concerns have been further amplified by the controversy surrounding the DPWH’s flood control projects, where some officials were accused of inflating project costs to facilitate kickbacks.

In response to these issues, President Marcos has mandated a reduction in project costs for various infrastructure developments, including farm-to-market roads, irrigation systems, classrooms, and hospitals. The savings generated from these reductions will be directed towards programs that support families, enhance livelihoods, and strengthen communities.

“The savings we secure will go where they matter most: To programs that uplift families, support livelihoods, and strengthen communities. Because when our people grow in capability and confidence, the nation grows with them,” Marcos said, emphasizing the long-term benefits of his policy.

He further reiterated his commitment to maintaining public trust and integrity. “A government that honors public trust. A nation that stands firm on integrity. This is our promise. And real change for every Filipino today and all generations to come,” he added.

The Marcos administration is currently navigating what has been described as the largest corruption scandal of the decade, with billions of pesos allegedly misappropriated from the country’s funds. Several high-ranking officials, including senators, members of the House of Representatives, and an undersecretary, have been implicated in the controversy.

Key Points from the President's Directive

• Cost Reduction Measures: All government agencies involved in infrastructure development are now required to cut construction costs to ensure transparency and efficiency.
• Focus on Essential Projects: The initiative targets critical areas such as education, healthcare, and agriculture, ensuring that public resources are used effectively.
• Addressing Corruption: The move is part of a broader effort to combat corruption and restore public confidence in government institutions.
• Savings for Communities: The funds saved from reduced costs will be redirected to support community development and improve the quality of life for Filipinos.