MANILA, Philippines — Former Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) chairman Greco Belgica has reignited political debate after publicly criticizing President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., accusing his administration of selective justice in its anti-corruption efforts. Belgica alleged that law enforcement actions under the current government disproportionately target political opponents while allies and even members of the President’s family remain untouched by investigations.

In a strongly worded statement, Belgica claimed that those being arrested or charged are merely “fall guys,” while higher-ranking officials allegedly linked to corruption scandals are spared from scrutiny. His remarks drew attention to corruption allegations that surfaced in 2025 involving flood-control projects and controversial budget insertions. These allegations, first raised by former House Appropriations Committee chair Zaldy Co, implicated top government figures in the alleged diversion of billions of pesos through anomalous infrastructure projects.

The controversy escalated when Co accused President Marcos Jr. and then-House Speaker Martin Romualdez of receiving kickbacks from flood-control funds. Although the administration denied the claims, Romualdez eventually stepped down as Speaker in September 2025, a move that fueled speculation rather than settling public doubts. The issue widened further when Co also accused House Majority Leader Sandro Marcos, the President’s son, of overseeing massive budget insertions—allegations Malacañang dismissed as politically motivated attacks.

Beyond personalities, Belgica’s statements strike at a deeper issue: public trust. Anti-corruption campaigns rely heavily on credibility, and any perception of favoritism or selective enforcement weakens their moral authority. For many Filipinos already skeptical of political accountability, the question is no longer about individual accusations but about whether justice is applied equally, regardless of name or position. As corruption allegations continue to surface and denials persist, the public is left to reflect: can an anti-corruption drive succeed if it is perceived as selective, and who ultimately holds the powerful accountable? (Larawan: Greco Belgica / Facebook)