MANILA, Philippines — Actress and television host Bianca Gonzalez called for continued scrutiny of alleged corruption in flood control projects as heavy rains and successive storms triggered flooding in several parts of the Philippines.
In a Facebook post over the weekend, Gonzalez warned that the latest rains could expose areas where flood control funds allegedly went to “ghost projects.”
“Nagsimula na naman ang pag-ulan at pagdating ng sunud-sunod na bagyo, magkakaalaman na naman ng mga lugar na ghost project lang ang milyones na flood control budget,” Gonzalez said.
She said ordinary Filipinos who work to support their families would bear the consequences of flooding.
Gonzalez also urged voters to remember alleged corruption when choosing candidates in future elections.
“Paalala lang sa lahat na huwag kalimutan, huwag magpabulag, huwag nang ibigay ang suporta sa mga pulitikong kinukurakot ang kaban ng bayan,” she said.
Her remarks came as the southwest monsoon, or habagat, intensified by Typhoon Dolphin, brought heavy rains to parts of Luzon.
Ilocos Sur and Benguet were placed under red rainfall warning as the monsoon strengthened. Several areas in Metro Manila, including parts of Quezon City, also reported flooding.
In Baguio City, flooding, landslides and fallen trees prompted authorities to evacuate 51 families. At least seven people died in drowning and landslide incidents linked to the persistent rains.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said the southwest monsoon would continue to bring rains over the next few days.
Gonzalez has previously spoken publicly about alleged irregularities involving flood control spending and government accountability.