Rappler reporters, anti-corruption advocates tackle public works scandal probe

MANILA, Philippines – Rappler reporters discussed with anti-corruption advocates on Wednesday, December 10, their corruption scandal investigations that helped spark a movement for transparency and accountability.

In a Rappler+ briefing led by investigative editor Chay Hofileña, reporters Lian Buan, Dwight de Leon, Jairo Bolledo, and Patrick Cruz shared how they came up with their investigative pieces and the hurdles they faced in working to uncover the systemic corruption in the country.

Among those who attended the discussion were artist-activist Mae Paner, Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, and political scientist Kiko Dee. Paner co-organized the Baha sa Luneta protests in Manila while David and Dee were part of the Trillion Peso March in EDSA.

De Leon shared that his investigations on the construction firms tied to former Ako Bicol representative Zaldy Co and CWS Representative Edwin Gardiola started from “open secrets,” which he pursued and verified.

“Open secrets – they are only rumors until facts made them undeniable. So, work with us, journalists, who can establish these open secrets as facts,” he said, calling on the public to share the “open secrets” they know as these could be leads for journalists’ stories.

Buan stressed how the country is run by what she called “freelance politicians,” or public officials who corner government project contracts. She also noted that unprogrammed appropriations, which is a “basket of funds,” soared under the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

“We are just run by dynasts who moonlight as public officials,” Buan said.

Bolledo, meanwhile, highlighted the importance of talking to people for days to find someone who would be willing to be a source in Davao City – the stronghold of the Dutertes – so as to solidify his investigative pieces about the infrastructure projects of the family’s allies.

“Trust your trails. Trails are basically the investigative evidence that we have, but most importantly, you have to build rapport with people. I will not be able to complete my story and investigation in Davao City if I did not build rapport and show people my sincerity about investigating the Dutertes and [Glenn] Escandor and why it’s important to seek accountability,” he said.

Cruz’s curiosity, on the other hand, paved the way for his investigative piece about contractor Lawrence Lubiano’s donation to Senator Chiz Escudero’s campaign. Escudero was ousted amid a Senate probe into the flood control scandal, which involved Lubiano.

“We might see the campaign of politicians backed by government contractors in the 2028 elections if we will not do something about it,” Cruz said, noting that the Commission on Elections cleared Escudero and Lubiano of liability.

The Rappler reporters also shared their struggles such as protecting their sources after their reports were published and dealing with a demand letter.

Government investigation into infrastructure projects began after Marcos condemned the anomalous projects amid a series of floods during his State of the Nation Address in July.

The President then formed an Independent Commission for Infrastructure to look into the allegations of flood control corruption.

Both chambers of Congress have also conducted inquiries into the scandal. – Rappler.com