Fact Sheet for News Writing Secondary
Topic: Headline: Comprehensive Anti-Corruption Program
Date: January 15, 2025
Location: Malacañang Palace, Manila, Philippines
Summary of the Event:
• President Ferdinand Marcos unveiled the National Integrity Program (NIP) aimed at
combating corruption and promoting transparency across all government agencies.
• The initiative is part of the government’s Vision 2040 to build a trustworthy and effective
bureaucracy.
Key Highlights of the Program:
1. Digitalization of Government Services:
o Mandatory transition of government transactions to online platforms by 2026.
o Creation of a centralized Transparency Portal for public access to government
spending and projects.
2. Strengthened Anti-Corruption Measures:
o Establishment of the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC)
with prosecutorial powers.
o Increase in whistleblower protections under the Whistleblower Protection Act of
2025.
3. Citizen Participation:
o Launch of the "Bantay Bayan" Program, which enables citizens to report
anomalies via a mobile app.
o Community forums and workshops to educate Filipinos on recognizing and
addressing corruption.
Budget Allocation:
• Initial funding: ₱50 billion, sourced from reallocation of unused funds in government
programs.
• Additional resources will be sought through public-private partnerships and international
grants.
Government Statements:
1. President Ferdinand Marcos :
o "Corruption undermines democracy and development. With this program, we are
building a culture of integrity and accountability for a better future."
2. Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Ramon Dela Cruz:
o "Digitalization will not only streamline services but also minimize opportunities
for graft and corruption."
3. Office of the Ombudsman:
o "The program empowers our office to effectively investigate and prosecute
corruption cases with the new tools and resources at our disposal."
Public Reaction:
• Advocacy groups like Transparency Watch Philippines and Kaya Natin Movement
lauded the program, calling it a "transformative step."
• Critics, including opposition leaders, urged the administration to ensure the program’s
proper implementation and avoid politicization.
International Support:
• The World Bank pledged $50 million in support of the Philippines' anti-corruption
initiatives.
• The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) announced technical assistance for
program implementation.
Challenges and Concerns:
• Skepticism from the public due to past corruption scandals involving government
officials.
• Concerns over the readiness of rural areas to adopt digital platforms.