13/09/2025
Different Philippine presidents have promised to fight corruption, but their approaches and results vary. Here’s a quick rundown of how some leaders tackled it:
🇵🇭 Presidents and Their Anti-Corruption Drives
Ferdinand Marcos Sr. (1965–1986)
Promised reform but ended up accused of massive plunder (billions in ill-gotten wealth).
Corazon Aquino (1986–1992)
Restored democracy after Marcos, created agencies to recover stolen wealth through the PCGG (Presidential Commission on Good Government).
Fidel Ramos (1992–1998)
Pushed economic reforms and deregulation, but corruption in government agencies still persisted.
Joseph Estrada (1998–2001)
Promised a government “for the poor” but was ousted in EDSA II for corruption charges (jueteng payola scandal).
Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (2001–2010)
Faced multiple corruption scandals (e.g., NBN–ZTE deal). Critics said her anti-corruption campaign was weak.
Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III (2010–2016)
His slogan was “Daang Matuwid” (Straight Path).
Focused on transparency and prosecuted some corrupt officials, but critics said progress was uneven.
Rodrigo Duterte (2016–2022)
Promised a tough stance, called corruption “endemic.”
Fired several officials, but corruption cases in PhilHealth, Customs, and other agencies remained unresolved.
Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. (2022–present)
Has spoken against corruption and pushed for digitalization to lessen red tape.
Critics question whether his administration can truly fight corruption, given his family’s history and ongoing scandals.
⚖️ Challenges in Fighting Corruption
Corruption networks are deeply entrenched in politics and business.
Selective justice – some politicians get prosecuted while others remain untouchable.
Weak enforcement – even with laws, powerful figures often escape accountability.
👉 Every president has promised to fight corruption, but the results are usually partial or symbolic, with scandals still surfacing regularly.
