Marcos promised a crackdown on flood control corruption. What happened a year later?
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. pledged to crack down on corruption in flood control projects during his 2025 State of the Nation Address. One year later, legal actions have been taken against at least 30 individuals, including 24 officials from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Senator Jinggoy Estrada, and former Senator Bong Revilla. Many of these individuals have been detained, though some remain at large. Investigations revealed that numerous members of the Marcos administration, including the president's cousin Martin Romualdez, were involved in securing infrastructure contracts, raising concerns about conflicts of interest. Former Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman resigned after being implicated in budget manipulation related to the scandal. The controversy led to widespread protests demanding Marcos' resignation and prompted both the House of Representatives and the Senate to launch investigations. However, the House inquiry was short-lived, as it was replaced by a new commission established by Marcos. The scandal has exposed deep entanglements between politicians and contractors, with significant public funds reportedly misappropriated, though exact sums,
Go to the primary sources (4)
The official sources this coverage is built on. Read them directly to bypass framing.
Philippine House member Salvador Pleyto praised President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for mentioning the proposed New Philippine Building Act and the Metro Rail Transit Line 7 (MRT-7) during his fifth State of the Nation Address (Sona). The remarks highlight the administration's focus on infrastructure development, including updated building regulations and expansion of public transportation. While the article notes the positive reception from a representative, it does not provide further details on the content of the proposed legislation or the current status of the MRT-7 project.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a statement from a House member praising the president's mention of specific policies, but it does not take a clear ideological stance or frame the issue in a partisan manner. The tone remains neutral, focusing on the announcement rather than advocating for or against the policy
Why factuality (95): The article accurately describes the praise received by Marcos for mentioning the New Philippine Building Act and MRT-7 in his Sona. The content aligns with the cross-source consensus and contains no misleading information.
Why objectivity (92): The tone is largely positive but remains objective, quoting the representative's statements without injecting personal opinion or bias.
The House of Representatives in the Philippines has announced plans to expedite legislation aimed at eliminating the system loss charge from electricity bills and providing income tax relief to Filipino taxpayers, especially those in the middle class. This initiative was highlighted by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during his fifth State of the Nation Address (Sona), where he emphasized the need for economic support for citizens. The proposed measures aim to reduce financial burdens on households and stimulate economic activity. While the specifics of the bills remain under consideration, the focus is on addressing immediate financial concerns for ordinary Filipinos.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the legislative agenda as outlined by the president without overtly favoring any particular political ideology. It focuses on the content of the proposed bills rather than emphasizing partisan perspectives. The framing remains neutral, focusing on the stated goals of economic援助和
Why factuality (95): The article accurately reports the House's intention to fast-track bills related to system loss charges and income tax relief, aligning with the cross-source consensus that these were priorities highlighted in Marcos' Sona. No major inaccuracies or omissions are evident.
Why objectivity (90): The tone remains neutral and factual, presenting the legislative agenda without overt bias or emotional language. It frames the actions as aligned with the President's priorities without taking a stance.
Senator Rodante Marcoleta has called on his fellow senators to find ways to allow him and Senator Jinggoy Estrada, who are currently detained and facing nonbailable charges of plunder, to participate in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. Both Marcoleta and Estrada are members of the minority bloc in the Senate. Their detention raises questions about their ability to engage in legislative processes, particularly in high-profile cases like the impeachment trial. The situation highlights potential challenges in ensuring due process and participation for lawmakers who are under legal scrutiny.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a straightforward account of Senator Marcoleta’s request without overtly favoring any political side. It reports on the legal status of two senators and their involvement in a significant political process, the impeachment trial, without using biased language or selectively omitte
Why factuality (95): The article accurately reports Senator Rodante Marcoleta's request for his fellow senators to find ways for him and Jinggoy Estrada to participate in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. This is consistent with other articles on the subject.
Why objectivity (90): The article remains neutral in tone, simply relaying Marcoleta's request without taking a position on its validity or implications.
During his Kontra-State of the Nation Address (anti-Sona), Senator Alan Peter Cayetano referred to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as the 'president of the opposition.' This remark came as Cayetano defended fellow senators Jinggoy Estrada and Rodante Marcoleta, who are currently detained on plunder charges. The comments highlight ongoing tensions within the Philippine Senate and reflect the political dynamics between the ruling administration and its critics.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as being aligned with the opposition, which suggests a critical stance toward the current administration. The term 'president of the opposition' implies a challenge to the executive branch, indicating a left-leaning perspective that critiques the pro
Why factuality (95): The article accurately reports Senator Alan Peter Cayetano's characterization of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as the 'president of the opposition' during the Kontra–Sona event. This aligns with the broader political discourse reported elsewhere.
Why objectivity (90): The article presents the information objectively, quoting Cayetano directly without editorializing or showing bias.
Senator Rodante Marcoleta has called on his fellow senators to find ways for himself and detained Senator Jinggoy Estrada to participate in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. Both lawmakers, part of the minority bloc seen as supportive of Duterte, are facing plunder charges from the Sandiganbayan. The request comes amid ongoing legal proceedings against them, highlighting the intersection of personal legal issues and political accountability.
Bias read (Center): The article presents Marcoleta's call for participation in the impeachment trial without overtly endorsing or criticizing either side. It focuses on the procedural aspect of allowing detained legislators to take part, rather than taking a clear ideological stance. While the subject involves high-sta
Why factuality (95): The article accurately conveys Senator Rodante Marcoleta's call for his fellow senators to find ways for him and Jinggoy Estrada to participate in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. This is consistent with other articles reporting on Marcoleta's efforts.
Why objectivity (90): The article remains neutral in tone, simply relaying Marcoleta's request without taking a stance on its feasibility or implications.
A former LandBank branch manager, Nenita Camposano, testified during the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, describing the Department of Education's (DepEd) large cash withdrawal of P37.5 million as 'unusual.' This testimony comes amid ongoing scrutiny of alleged misuse of a confidential fund (CF) within Duterte's office. When questioned by Senator-judge Imee Marcos, Camposano clarified that while large withdrawals are common for both private and public clients at LandBank, the specific amount withdrawn by DepEd was unusually high for the agency. Earlier, she had stated that such withdrawals were regular occurrences, leading to confusion over whether her testimony implied approval or concern. This follows another LandBank employee, Violeta Constantino, who also noted the transaction was unusual. The testimony is part of the Senate's examination of allegations of financial misconduct linked to Duterte.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of the conflicting interpretations of Camposano's testimony. It does not take a clear ideological stance on the impeachment proceedings or the allegations against Duterte. The framing remains neutral, focusing on the legal process and the ambiguity surrounding
Why factuality (95): The article accurately reports that Nenita Camposano described the P37.5 million cash withdrawals by DepEd under Sara Duterte as 'unusual' during her testimony in the impeachment trial. It provides specific details such as the amount, the context of the impeachment trial, and the questioning by Sena
Why objectivity (85): The article maintains a relatively neutral tone, presenting facts from the impeachment trial without overtly favoring any party. However, the headline uses the word 'also' implying prior testimony, which may slightly frame the narrative. The article avoids strong emotive language but focuses on repo
Monica Baylon-Solideo, INQUIRER.net’s data analytics manager, analyzed public reactions on social media to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s fifth State of the Nation Address, delivered on July 27, 2026. The report highlights that the cost of goods was identified as the top issue Filipinos wanted addressed by the administration. While the article focuses on public sentiment, it does not provide detailed content of the speech itself or specific criticisms or praises directed at the president.
Bias read (Center): The article presents an analysis of public reaction to a political event but does not take a clear ideological stance. It reports on the findings of a survey regarding public concerns without expressing judgment or promoting any particular political viewpoint. The framing remains neutral, focusing客观
Why factuality (95): The article accurately reports the date of the event (July 27, 2026) and mentions the involvement of Monica Baylon-Solideo as the data analyst examining social media reactions. It references a related article about the cost of goods being a top issue, aligning with the cross-source consensus on the
Why objectivity (85): The article maintains a neutral tone by presenting the analysis of social media reactions without overtly favoring any perspective. However, the title 'SOCIAL LISTENING' slightly frames the content as a form of monitoring public opinion, which may imply a subtle bias toward interpreting reactions ra
The House of Representatives in the Philippines, led by Majority Leader Ferdinand 'Sandro' Marcos, has stated its commitment to passing the remaining 26 of 52 priority administration bills. These bills were identified through the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) and are intended to support President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s programs and improve citizens' lives. The passed bills include structural reforms, healthcare amendments, and measures aimed at promoting transparency and good governance. Some of the bills focus on specific sectors, such as coconut farmers and small businesses, while others aim to streamline program accessibility for the public.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the House of Representatives' plan to pass priority administration bills without overtly favoring any political side. It focuses on procedural commitments and legislative goals rather than taking a stance on policy merits or criticizing any party. The language remains neutral,陈述
Why factuality (94): The article accurately reports the House of Representatives' commitment to passing the remaining 26 priority administration bills, citing Majority Leader Sandro Marcos. It aligns with the cross-source consensus that the House is focusing on these legislative priorities. The details about the Legisla
Why objectivity (88): The article maintains a generally neutral tone, presenting statements from Sandro Marcos without overt bias. However, it occasionally uses phrases like 'help our people' and 'make their lives more comfortable,' which slightly favor the government's perspective. Overall, it remains relatively balance
RapplerIndependentProgressiveFactual 92Objective 809 days ago
The article discusses President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA), highlighting concerns about declining public trust in his leadership. Alliance of Concerned Teachers vice chairperson Carl Marc Ramota emphasizes the need for Marcos to focus on accountability, economic relief, and good governance to rebuild trust. Public trust in Marcos has fallen to 34%, according to a June 2026 survey by Social Weather Stations, while Vice President Sara Duterte maintains higher support. Ramota argues that democratic legitimacy depends on public sentiment, which is measurable and influential. Economist Emmanuel Leyco notes that while the Philippines has achieved upper-middle-income status, ordinary citizens, particularly those in lower socioeconomic classes, continue to face significant economic hardships, including rising costs of basic goods. The article underscores the gap between national economic indicators and the lived experiences of everyday Filipinos.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the discussion around the need for government accountability and citizen-centered policies, aligning with progressive values. It critiques the administration's handling of economic issues and highlights the disconnect between national economic metrics and the realities faced by普通菲
Why factuality (92): The article provides accurate background on Marcos' declining public trust and quotes Carl Marc Ramota's analysis of the Sona as a pivotal moment. The facts align with the cross-source consensus.
Why objectivity (80): The tone is somewhat critical of Marcos' performance and emphasizes the need for improvement, which introduces a subtle bias. However, it does not outrightly condemn or overly praise either side.
RapplerIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 955 days ago
Rappler fact-checked a viral social media claim that Cagayan de Oro 1st District Representative Lordan Suan criticized Vice President Sara Duterte for visiting a hospital during an earthquake relief effort. The claim included a fabricated quote suggesting that such visits should be the President’s responsibility. Suan’s office denied the claim, stating he had never made such a statement. The false quote was similar to another debunked claim previously attributed to Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro. The image used in the post was taken from Duterte’s actual visit to a field hospital in Sarangani in June 2026. Additionally, Suan is part of the House of Representatives’ impeachment trial against Duterte, which is now in its fourth week.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a fact-check on a specific claim involving a politician and a public figure, providing balanced information by including both the claim and the denial from Suan’s office. It does not exhibit clear bias toward either side, focusing on verifying the accuracy of the statement and澄清
Why factuality (90): This article thoroughly investigates a false quote attributed to Lordan Suan, confirming through multiple sources that the quote was fabricated. It provides clear evidence of the misinformation and explains how it spread online. The content aligns closely with the facts and does not introduce any un
Why objectivity (95): The article is highly objective, presenting the findings without emotional language or personal opinion. It clearly distinguishes between the false claim and the verified reality, maintaining a balanced and informative tone throughout.
RapplerIndependentProgressiveFactual 90Objective 956 days ago
The article reports that two bank officials testified that the encashment of large funds by Vice President Sara Duterte's office was 'unusual.' This testimony comes amid ongoing scrutiny of her conduct, including her impeachment proceedings. The article also mentions other news items, such as Senator Pia Cayetano sharing a potentially misleading video, legal actions against individuals linked to a fugitive, and a senator submitting evidence regarding flood control projects. Additionally, it notes a tennis victory by Filipina player Alex Eala.
Bias read (Progressive): The article highlights the unusual financial activity of Vice President Sara Duterte, which is part of broader political scrutiny and potential impeachment efforts. While the focus is on the bank officials' testimony, the context suggests a critical stance toward Duterte's administration, aligning a
Why factuality (90): The article accurately reports on the spliced video controversy involving Chel Diokno and Senator-judge Pia Cayetano, aligning closely with the primary source documents. It clearly identifies the altered nature of the video and explains the context, ensuring fidelity to the facts presented in the pr
Why objectivity (95): The article maintains a high degree of neutrality, presenting the facts without editorializing or showing favoritism toward either side. It clearly distinguishes between the original statement and the altered version, avoiding any biased interpretation.
RapplerIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 956 days ago
An article from Rappler investigates a viral video that allegedly misrepresented the statement of Akbayan Representative and public prosecutor Chel Diokno during Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial. The video, which has been shared widely on Facebook, appears to show Diokno admitting that the House prosecution was 'taking a chance' to obtain evidence against Duterte. However, the article reveals that the video had been spliced to alter the context of Diokno's remarks. According to the Senate's official records and the livestream of the trial, Diokno was clarifying that the prosecution's request for Duterte's financial records was not a 'fishing expedition,' as there was sufficient cause to proceed with the case. The article highlights that key parts of Diokno's original statement were removed from the spliced video to create a misleading impression. Diokno himself addressed the issue in a Facebook post, refuting the altered narrative.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of the controversy surrounding the spliced video, citing both the altered version and the original statement from the Senate's records. It does not take a clear ideological stance but rather focuses on verifying the accuracy of the claims made in the video. As
Why factuality (90): The article accurately describes the prosecution's proposal to alternate with the defense on evidence presentation, referencing the primary source documents. It provides context and quotes from the prosecution's manifest, maintaining alignment with the factual details from the primary sources.
Why objectivity (95): The article presents the situation objectively, discussing the proposal without taking sides or using emotionally charged language. It focuses on the procedural aspects of the trial, ensuring a balanced perspective.
The Senate impeachment court has received Vice President Sara Duterte's tax records following authorization from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) confirmed that it obtained the necessary approval from Marcos to provide the documents to the court. This development comes amid ongoing investigations into potential misconduct by high-ranking officials.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual update regarding the submission of tax records to the Senate impeachment court. It does not exhibit overtly biased language, one-sided sourcing, or omission of context. The information provided is neutral and focuses on procedural developments within the political and,
Why factuality (90): The article accurately reports on Marcos' proposal to increase the minimum taxable income, referencing the primary source document. It provides clear context about the proposed change and its implications.
Why objectivity (85): The article remains neutral, presenting Marcos' proposal and its potential impact without injecting personal opinion or bias.
RapplerIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 855 days ago
During the 10th day of Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial on July 29, 2026, two former bank officials testified about the encashment of unusually large sums of money by her staff. Violeta Constantino, a former Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) branch manager, described overseeing the conversion of a P125-million check into cash as unprecedented in her 32-year career. Similarly, retired LBP Department of Education branch manager Nenita Camposano noted that a P37.5-million check withdrawal by DepEd was also highly unusual. Both emphasized that while these transactions were 'unusual,' they did not meet the criteria for being 'suspicious' under Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLCC) guidelines. The AMLCC distinguishes between covered transaction reports (CTRs), which are automatically filed for large cash transactions, and suspicious transaction reports (STRs), which require banks to identify specific red flags like lack of economic justification or structured avoidance of reporting. Over the years, Duterte and her husband's accounts triggered numerous CTRs, but no STRs were filed due to the absence of clear indicators of illicit activity.
Bias read (Center): The article presents testimony from former bank officials and references AMLC guidelines without overtly favoring any side. It explains both the nature of the transactions and the regulatory framework, providing balanced context without apparent ideological bias.
Why factuality (90): The article clarifies the edited video shared by Sen. Pia Cayetano and explains the prosecution’s stance. It includes direct quotes from Rep. Chel Diokno and references to the AMLC records, which are consistent with the primary source and other articles.
Why objectivity (85): The article maintains a neutral tone, presenting both perspectives without evident bias. It clearly outlines the positions of the prosecution and the defense.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has expressed a commitment to passing an anti-political dynasty bill before the end of his term, despite not addressing the issue in his recent State of the Nation Address. The bill, which was approved by the House of Representatives in June, aims to prevent second-degree relatives from holding public office simultaneously. The Senate version of the bill is currently undergoing its second reading. Under the proposed law, candidates would need to submit affidavits stating they do not have relatives running for office who would create a 'prohibited dynasty relationship.' Additionally, the bill outlines procedures for resolving conflicts where relatives run for office at the same level or different levels. President Marcos has prioritized this legislation alongside other reforms aimed at curbing political dynasties. However, Marcos himself comes from a prominent political family with multiple relatives already serving in various governmental roles.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about the proposed anti-political dynasty bill and President Marcos's stated intentions without overtly favoring one side. It includes quotes from official sources and provides context about the bill's provisions and the president's family connections. There
Why factuality (90): The article details the status of the anti-political dynasty bill, citing a press officer from the Palace and referencing previous legislative actions. It provides specific details about the bill's requirements and procedures, which are consistent with reported legislative processes. There is no con
Why objectivity (85): The article maintains a neutral tone, presenting facts about the president's stance and the legislative process without injecting personal opinion or emotional language. It reports on both the executive and legislative branches without favoring one over the other.
Iloilo's lone district representative, Julianne 'Jamjam' Baronda, has given a 'passing grade' to President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr.'s fifth State of the Nation Address (Sona). While expressing support for the president's address, she acknowledged that more work remains to improve the lives of Filipinos. The statement was released shortly after the President's speech, indicating her approval of his performance thus far.
Bias read (Conservative): The article presents a positive assessment of the President's Sona by a local representative, which aligns with pro-government sentiment. The framing emphasizes approval and support, suggesting a right-leaning perspective in the context of Philippine politics.
Why factuality (90): The article accurately reflects the content of the primary source document regarding the senator's evaluation of the Sona. It provides direct quotes and maintains the original message without distortion.
Why objectivity (85): The article presents the senator's opinion without commentary, maintaining neutrality. However, the phrase 'passing grade' may slightly imply approval, though it is presented as a direct quote.
Senator Risa Hontiveros expressed satisfaction with certain aspects of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s fifth State of the Nation Address (Sona). However, she emphasized that she remains critical and continues to seek further improvements. Hontiveros highlighted her expectation for concrete evidence, beyond mere reports, to demonstrate how the government has improved the lives of Filipino families. Her comments reflect ongoing scrutiny of the administration’s performance and suggest a desire for greater transparency and accountability.
Bias read (Center): The article presents Senator Hontiveros' remarks in a balanced manner, noting both her satisfaction with parts of the Sona and her continued calls for more action. There is no evident bias toward either the administration or the opposition; the framing is neutral and focuses on her stated positions.
Why factuality (90): The article accurately summarizes Senator Risa Hontiveros’ response to the Sona 2026, noting her satisfaction with certain aspects while expressing a desire for more. This aligns with the general consensus among the sources.
Why objectivity (85): While the tone remains mostly neutral, the phrase 'always looking for more' may subtly imply a critical stance, slightly reducing the overall neutrality.
RapplerIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 858 days ago
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. proposed nuclear energy as part of the Philippines' strategy to secure affordable and clean energy during his fifth State of the Nation Address in 2026. He emphasized the need to explore nuclear power alongside other alternatives like untapped gas reserves and hydrogen. Marcos assured the public that nuclear energy would be safe and highlighted its existing applications in medicine, agriculture, and water filtration. Critics argue that the focus should remain on renewable energy due to concerns over nuclear waste and potential disasters, while anti-nuclear groups oppose reviving the mothballed Bataan Nuclear Power Plant. The proposal reflects ongoing debates about energy security and technological advancement.
Bias read (Center): While the article presents Marcos' push for nuclear energy as a significant policy proposal, it also includes balanced perspectives from critics and anti-nuclear groups. The framing remains neutral, presenting both the administration's arguments and opposing viewpoints without overtly favoring one.
Why factuality (90): The article accurately reports on the release of Duterte's tax records, referencing the primary source document. It clearly states the process and the rationale behind the decision.
Why objectivity (85): The article maintains a neutral tone, explaining the procedural aspects and the rationale behind the decision without taking sides.
GMA News OnlineIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 858 days ago
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has proposed removing system loss charges from electricity bills during his State of the Nation Address (SONA) in 2026. System loss charges are fees imposed on consumers to account for energy lost during transmission and distribution. Marcos argued that these charges place an unfair burden on households and businesses, particularly those already struggling with high energy costs. His proposal aims to alleviate financial pressure on consumers by eliminating these additional charges. The move has sparked discussions among policymakers and industry stakeholders regarding the feasibility and implications of such a change.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the proposal made by President Marcos without overtly favoring any particular side. It outlines the issue and the proposed solution neutrally, without using loaded language or emphasizing one perspective over another. The framing appears balanced, focusing on the stated intent,
Why factuality (90): The article directly quotes the content of Marcos' Sona regarding removing system loss charges from power bills, providing clear and accurate reporting without distortion.
Why objectivity (85): The article presents the information neutrally, focusing on the content of the Sona without injecting editorial commentary.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. delivered his fifth State of the Nation Address (Sona) in 2026, addressing public concerns about corruption, rising food prices, and economic inequality. According to a recent survey by Pulse Asia, 30% of Filipinos prioritize reducing the cost of essential goods like rice, meat, and fish, while 28% emphasize tackling corruption and improving government accountability. The same survey noted growing public demand for more job creation and livelihood opportunities. These findings reflect shifting priorities among Filipino citizens as the Marcos administration enters its final two years in power. Officials and analysts urge the president to move beyond promises and implement concrete reforms.
Bias read (Center): The article presents survey data and quotes from officials without overtly favoring any side. It reports public opinion and expert commentary neutrally, emphasizing the need for reform without taking a stance on whether the government is meeting these demands.
Why factuality (90): The article accurately reports the date of the SONA (July 28, 2025) and correctly cites the survey data regarding public concerns about corruption and food prices. It provides specific percentages from the Pulse Asia survey which aligns with the primary source information.
Why objectivity (85): The article maintains a neutral tone throughout, presenting facts without overt bias. It includes multiple perspectives by mentioning lawmakers' expectations and survey results without taking sides.
How each side covered it
The same event, grouped by the political lean of the outlets covering it.
progressive
center
conservative
★
How each side covered it
Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.
PH![[Pinoy Criminology] Releasing Bong Revilla a travesty of pretrial justice reform](https://images.weserv.nl/?url=newsinfo.inquirer.net%2Ffiles%2F2026%2F04%2FRamon-Bong-Revilla-Jr-7April2026.jpg&w=3840&q=75&output=webp&we)
