Philippines Roundup: Corruption scandals, reform pushes, public trust woes dominate politics

Abigail Johnson Boakye — Mon, 20 Oct 2025 23:51:04 Z

Senators call for Lacson’s return to the Blue Ribbon Committee

A growing number of Philippine senators are urging the reinstatement of former senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson to the Blue Ribbon Committee, the body known for investigating government corruption. Lawmakers believe Lacson’s experience and reputation for integrity would lend credibility to ongoing probes into major irregularities. His possible return comes as multiple agencies face scrutiny for alleged misuse of public funds in infrastructure and procurement projects.

Lacson asserts that the government’s fight against corruption serves all Filipinos

In a related development, Lacson stressed that the government’s anti-corruption drive should benefit “all Filipinos, not just businesses.” He noted that corruption undermines public welfare and economic confidence. His statement followed renewed public debate over corruption in flood control projects, procurement processes, and campaign financing. Lacson called for consistency in the enforcement of laws to ensure accountability at all levels of government.

Government prepares jail cells for flood control corruption suspects

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) announced that regular jail facilities have been readied for individuals accused in the flood control corruption case, underscoring the administration’s seriousness in addressing the scandal. The DILG said that no special treatment will be afforded to those implicated, amid criticism that high-profile offenders often avoid standard detention conditions. The department emphasized that justice must be seen to be fair and consistent to rebuild public trust.

Public trust in government plunges amid corruption controversy

A new nationwide poll has revealed a significant decline in public trust in government institutions during the third quarter of 2025. The drop follows a wave of corruption scandals linked to infrastructure projects and campaign financing. Analysts say the findings reflect rising public frustration with the slow pace of reforms and transparency efforts. Business and civil society groups are pressing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to take stronger action to restore confidence.

Business sector urges Marcos to take decisive anti-corruption measures

Major business groups have issued a joint statement calling on President Marcos to take “swift and decisive action” against what they describe as “unprecedented levels of corruption.” They warn that continued inaction could damage investor confidence and slow economic recovery. The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has also reminded contractors and bidders that “shady schemes” will not succeed under the newly implemented procurement law. The government says the reforms aim to close loopholes that previously allowed irregularities to flourish.

Peru Roundup: Jerí’s early challenges, cabinet direction, confidence vote dominate Peru’s political week

Abigail Johnson Boakye — Mon, 20 Oct 2025 23:04:25 Z

President José Jerí outlines priorities for his first cabinet

Peru’s new president, José Jerí, has begun setting out the key guidelines for his first ministerial cabinet. The administration’s early focus is expected to center on stabilizing the political climate, advancing institutional reforms, and rebuilding public trust after years of turbulence. Political observers say the early policy framework will be crucial in shaping the administration’s credibility and the tone of governance going forward.

Electoral authorities meet with President Jerí at the Government Palace

In a show of cooperation between branches of government, the heads of JNE (National Jury of Elections), ONPE (National Office of Electoral Processes), and Reniec (National Registry of Identification and Civil Status) met with President Jerí at the Government Palace. The meeting focused on preparations for the 2026 elections, emphasizing coordination, transparency, and maintaining electoral integrity amid a rapidly changing political environment.

Analysts debate continuity in Peru’s new political era

Columnist Eliana Carlín has described the current administration as one that reflects “parliamentary continuity” despite promises of reform. In her piece, Continuismo parlamentario: la era Jerí, Carlín argues that although Jerí presents himself as a reformist, the structural composition of Congress and lingering political alliances may limit his capacity for real change. Her analysis highlights ongoing skepticism about whether the new government represents a true shift in Peru’s political trajectory.

Jerí’s first week in office marked by intense political activity

Local media have described the president’s initial eight days in office as “agitated” and “high-stakes.” During this period, Jerí has held numerous meetings with ministers, party leaders, and civil society groups while responding to early policy and political challenges. His fast-paced start underscores both the urgency to deliver results and the pressures of managing competing priorities in a politically divided landscape.

Prime Minister Ernesto Álvarez to seek confidence vote from Congress

Prime Minister Ernesto Álvarez announced he will appear before Congress on October 22 to request a vote of confidence, a pivotal test for the administration’s legislative support. The confidence motion will determine the government’s ability to advance its proposed agenda, and analysts say it could set the tone for executive-legislative relations over the next year. The outcome will reveal how much political capital Jerí’s new team holds just weeks into its tenure.

Global South World - trust