The fact that the Philippines requires flood control measures is beyond dispute. But the problem goes far deeper.
.jpg)
Flooded streets of Manila. (Photo: Robin Zebrowski / Flickr)
The fact that the Philippines is at the receiving end of countless typhoons every year is undeniable. But a miserable mix of corruption and the failure to execute and implement a slew of flood control projects has given the country the perfect storm.
In the span of just one week, the Philippines was pummelled by two devastating typhoons. Typhoon Tino (Kalmaegi) made landfall on 4 November 2025, leaving a trail of destruction across the Visayas Islands and Palawan, with at least 232 people dead. Five days later, the even stronger Typhoon Uwan (Fung-wong) made landfall in Luzon Island.
The Philippines is one of the countries most at risk from climate change. To compound matters, the reported proliferation of corruption-ridden and substandard flood control projects has amplified the impact of climate change risks.
In his 2025 State of the Nation Address, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. divulged large-scale corruption in the building of public works. He has launched months-long investigations into flood control projects and the deep collusion between lawmakers, public works officials, private sector contractors, and even budget officials.
