Speaker Dy urges House to unite, restore public trust amid corruption claims

MANILA, Philippines — The Independent Commission for Infrastructure’s investigation into the flood control corruption scandal has prompted action against several lawmakers. For House Speaker Bojie Dy, this signals the need to unite in rebuilding public trust in the chamber.

During the House flag ceremony on Monday, December 1, Dy sought to reassure lawmakers and staff, saying they can overcome challenges by working together to build an honest, people-centered Congress.

“Mga kasama, malinaw ang hamon sa ating lahat: Magkaisa. Magtulungan. Isantabi ang pansariling interes para sa kapakanan ng mamamayang Pilipino,” he said. 

(Colleagues, the challenge before us is clear: Unite. Help one another. Set aside personal interests for the sake of the Filipino people.)

Dy also said that if members of Congress can serve as a “light in the midst of darkness, conflict, doubt and falsehoods,” there is no better time than now.

Anti-dynasty bill as priority. The speaker has promised reforms long sought by the public, one of which is the passage of an anti-political dynasty bill that intends to curb the concentration of power among political families. 

Despite the measure potentially affecting most of Congress and his own political stronghold in Isabela, he pledged to prioritize it while continuing to serve as the chamber’s chief. 

A report by the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism has also found that over 80% of the 254 district representatives in the 20th Congress belong to political families.

Bill on ICI's powers. Dy also made a bold promise to fast-track the bill expanding the ICI’s powers, aiming to pass it on third and final reading before Congress adjourns for its December break.

The ICI and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) have already recommended the filing of criminal and administrative charges before the Ombudsman against eight former and incumbent House lawmakers for their continued ties with government contractors.

These include Elizaldy Co, Rep. Edwin Gardiola (CWS), Rep. Jojo Ang (Uswag Ilonggo), Rep. Jernie Nisay (Pusong Pinoy Party), Rep. Tina Pancho (Bulacan, 2nd District), Rep. Joseph Lara (Cagayan, 3rd District), Rep. Francisco Matugas (Surigao del Norte, 1st District) and Rep. Noel Reivera (Tarlac, 3rd District). 

Several lawmakers have denied the accusations, which allege potential kickbacks and how they used their influence to favor firms connected to them in government bidding.

The complaint cites alleged violations of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards, and the Government Procurement Reform Act.

Call for resilience. With Christmas near, Dy called on members to stay resilient, ignore social media attacks, hold onto hope, and face 2026 with renewed determination.

“Kayang-kaya nating baguhin ang imahe ng institusyong ito sa pamamagitan ng tapat, masipag, at makabuluhang paglilingkod,” he added. (We can change the image of this institution through honest, diligent, and meaningful service.)