MANILA, Philippines — Kabataan Party-list Rep. Atty. Renee Co on Thursday on criticized President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s anti-corruption campaign over his supposed “failure” to curb corruption saying corruption and the continuing political crises continue affecting the country.
Speaking at a news conference organized by Youth Rage Against Corruption (YRAC) in Manila, Co said there had been little progress in addressing corruption one year after Marcos publicly called on corrupt officials to be ashamed.
"It's been a year since President Marcos said, 'You should be ashamed,' but has anyone been ashamed? Taxes continue to be levied but services are not seen to improve. Nothing has changed because the big fish are still swimming in the money they stole from us," she said in Filipino.
The lawmaker also lamented that the lack of accountability and the political infighting distract public officials from fulfilling their duty in building a better future for the youth.
"This regime continues to spend the people's money on the oppression and sale of the country to foreigners. The youth are of no use to this administration because the economic and educational crisis continues to worsen,” she said.
Co was also critical of the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte and the alleged delaying tactics of her defense team but also expressed hope as the trial goes on.
"Evidence against him is gradually being laid out, while her legal team continues the theatrics, derailment tactics, and delaying maneuvers, he keeps evading accountability," she said.
Co urged young people to participate in civic action, saying collective action is necessary to achieve change for real and positive changes to happen.
She also encouraged the youth to join the "SONA ng Bayan" on July 27, an alternative gathering that coincides with Marcos' penultimate State of the Nation Address.
