MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. reaffirmed that his administration’s fight against corruption remains a central policy direction of the government.
Speaking during a joint press conference with German Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Marcos underscored how corruption continues to undermine public service delivery and weaken state institutions.
The President noted that corruption affects all sectors, including both government and private entities, and significantly hampers efficient governance.
“It changes the way government functions and restricts its capacity to deliver essential services to the people,” Marcos said, stressing the widespread impact of the problem.
He acknowledged that the administration’s anti-corruption initiative will not be an easy process, as it involves confronting entrenched systems and implementing difficult reforms.
Marcos also emphasized accountability, saying individuals found to be involved in corrupt practices should face punishment and be required to return ill-gotten gains to the public.
Beyond enforcement, he said the campaign also aims to identify the root causes of systemic corruption to strengthen safeguards and prevent similar issues in the future.
According to the President, these efforts are essential in rebuilding public trust and ensuring that government institutions function effectively and transparently.
ia/xf
