PCCI bats for tech-driven action to fight corruption

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) yesterday emphasized the need for urgent government action to address massive corruption in flood control projects, even as it expressed confidence in President Marcos’ leadership in tackling the problem.

PCCI president Enunina Mangio told reporters during the Philippine Business Conference and Expo yesterday that the business sector wants to see more action being taken on the alleged irregularities in the government’s flood control projects.

While the government has taken steps to look into corruption issues, she said current efforts are not enough.

“We feel that we need more. And we need decisive actions and decisions,” she said.

“We don’t want cover-ups. We don’t want railroading. We really want those responsible to be punished and to be identified,” Mangio said.

The country’s largest business organization is also pushing for the use of technology in the government’s fight against corruption.

She said the PCCI and 33 other business organizations issued a joint statement over the weekend to bring the issue to the President’s attention.

The business groups also called on Marcos to immediately adopt measures, including providing full legal authority and independence to the Independent Commission for Infrastructure, so that the body could carry out its task of conducting a swift probe that is free from political influence.

The groups also urged Marcos to ensure the recovery of government funds and provide regular updates on the ongoing probe into corruption issues.

While there are calls for the President to step down amid the corruption issues, Mangio said the business sector does not see the need for this.

“We released that statement so that we don’t have to reach that point. We’re trying to prevent aggressive actions from taking place,” she said.

Mangio also floated the use of technology in addressing corruption issues.

She said blockchain technology, in particular, could be used to monitor projects and the use of the budget.

“So we hope the technology available will be used,” Mangio said.