Marcos warns local officials against ghost projects and kickbacks in rehabilitation funds

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
November 05, 2026

Photo Courtesy: PCO

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has warned local government officials against corruption in the use of disaster rehabilitation funds, stressing that public money intended to help communities recover must not become a source of personal profit.

During the ceremonial turnover of financial assistance under the Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Assistance Program (DRRAP) at Malacañang on Thursday, November 5, Marcos called on local chief executives to ensure that rehabilitation projects are properly implemented and deliver their intended benefits.

“There must be no room for corruption for this program,” the President said, specifically warning against ghost projects, commissions and substandard rehabilitation works.

He added that anyone found taking advantage of communities affected by disasters would face the full force of the law.

The government has allocated around P8.6 billion under the program to support the recovery of 306 local government units affected by typhoons, earthquakes and the 2024 to 2026 Kanlaon Volcano eruption.

Of the total allocation, approximately P6 billion has already been released in the first batch. A second tranche worth more than P2.5 billion has also been approved for distribution to local governments.

Under DRRAP, local governments receive direct access to financial assistance so they can implement rehabilitation and reconstruction projects based on the specific needs of their communities.

Marcos also urged local officials to improve the reporting of disaster impacts to the Office of Civil Defense and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, saying accurate information is essential to ensure timely and appropriate government assistance.

The fund turnover comes amid continuing government investigations into alleged irregularities involving public infrastructure projects, including reports of nonexistent and substandard flood control works.

The President’s warning underscores the need for transparency and accountability as local governments take on a greater role in rebuilding communities affected by disasters.