Business groups blast gov't corruption

Philippine business, civic, and professional groups have united in a rare joint manifesto, blasting widespread corruption in government infrastructure projects and warning of eroding trust in governance.

- Ehda M. Dagooc Staff Member

At least 20 of the country's largest associations signed the statement, including the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), which added the voice of one of the Visayas' most influential business groups to what has until now largely been a Manila-driven campaign. Their participation signals a widening regional demand for transparency and accountability.

The manifesto singled out the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), local government units and the Commission on Audit, accusing officials of orchestrating systemic plunder of public funds.

It also castigated Congress for allegedly funneling contracts to lawmakers' family-owned companies and padding the budget with "ghost" projects.