The alliance of student organizations, youth formations, and student councils standing for climate justice remains firm in its principles as we walk out against corruption: We cannot achieve climate justice, a just transition away from fossil fuels, and a truly pro-people economy if our government continues to run like a business.
The alleged ₱118 billion in public funds favoring contractors and lawmakers is unacceptable amid the worsening climate crisis. Despite President Marcos Jr. claiming in his 2023 State of the Nation Address (SONA) that 5,500 flood control projects had been completed, many of these were later revealed to be substandard or even “ghost projects.” These were not led by new actors but by the same entrenched political families, allies, and business interests that have long benefited from corruption.
On August 11, President Marcos Jr. named 15 contractors allegedly involved in these questionable deals. By August 12, several politicians and supposed “public servants” were also implicated in this scandal.
While billions are being funneled into corruption, schools across the Philippines suffer from budget cuts under the Marcos Jr. administration, affecting facilities, maintenance, and day-to-day operations. Amid climate crisis, climate adaptation and mitigation are essential to protect communities and uphold the right to accessible and quality education for all.
The youth are not just inheritors of this planet; we are the ones most affected by climate change today and in the years to come. We have every right to say “No!” to repression, injustice, and any form of environmental and economic exploitation.
Corrupting the funds meant for climate adaptation and mitigation is not only a betrayal of public trust; it is a crime against the people and the planet.
Such acts can only come from officials bred and protected by a corrupt system that prioritizes profit over people and power over purpose.
Now, more than ever, we demand accountability, transparency, and systemic change. The fight for climate justice is inseparable from the fight against corruption. For the planet, for the people, and for the generations to come, we will rise, we will resist, and we will reclaim our future.
Youth Advocates for Climate Action Philippines 