CALOOCAN CITY — Cardinal Pablo Virgilio “Ambo” David has voiced strong criticism over the ongoing flooding issues in Malabon and Navotas, highlighting the lack of progress despite significant government spending.

In a social media post published Thursday, he wrote: “Not an iota of improvement, despite billions of pesos spent by national government on DPWH Flood Control Projects. Check out the COA Audit Reports on these projects, and you’ll get the shock of your life.”

He highlighted how corruption seriously undermines efforts to tackle climate-related challenges, arguing that combating graft is just as critical as managing flooding.

“Climate change is bad enough; corruption makes it even worse. Substandard flood control projects are a total waste of money. Obviously, flood control in our country has to be preceded by corruption control.”

Severe Tropical Storm Crising, intensified by the southwest monsoon ( habagat), brought relentless rains across Luzon and the Visayas, resulting in widespread flooding and extensive infrastructure damage.

The estimated cost of the damage has reached ₱3.75 billion, affecting flood control systems, roads, and bridges throughout the Ilocos Region, Central Luzon, Mimaropa, Western Visayas, and Negros Island.

The storm claimed seven lives, with several others reported injured and eight individuals still missing.

Approximately 1.4 million people —belonging to 401,439 families —were affected. Of this number, 77,108 individuals sought shelter at designated evacuation centers, while 64,597 others found refuge elsewhere.

📷 Pablo Virgilio David FB