Manila: Senate President Francis Escudero has expressed full support for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s initiative to conduct lifestyle checks on public officials, highlighting the constitutional and legal justifications for such a move. Escudero emphasized that Article XI, Section 1 of the 1987 Constitution mandates public officials to remain accountable to the people, serve with integrity, and lead modest lives.
According to Philippines News Agency, Escudero also cited Section 8 of Republic Act 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, which allows for the dismissal of public officials who cannot explain their wealth, along with Section 4(h) of Republic Act 6713, which prohibits extravagant displays of wealth by public servants. He stated, “These provisions affirm that public office is a public trust. Public servants must at all times be accountable and modest in their way of life,” in a Viber message to reporters.
Escudero urged the administration to consider legislative proposals he has filed to bolster the fight against corruption. These proposals include Senate Bill No. 232, which would require government officials and employees to execute a waiver permitting the examination of their bank deposits and investments, thereby easing the Bank Secrecy Law. Another proposal, Senate Bill No. 783, seeks to disqualify relatives of public officials within the fourth civil degree of consanguinity and affinity from entering into government contracts. Escudero noted that these reforms would complement the President’s initiative and institutionalize stronger safeguards against graft.
Marcos has ordered lifestyle checks on all government officials as part of the administration’s investigation into irregular flood control projects. Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated that the review will commence with officials from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). Marcos also directed a comprehensive examination of DPWH records to ensure accountability in the ongoing investigations.
