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September 18, 2025 | 10:04am
Photo shows ankle- to knee-deep levels inside the UST campus on July 22 due to the southwest monsoon.
The Varsitarian via Facebook / Shiela May S. Balangan
MANILA, Philippines — The University of Santo Tomas (UST) has condemned the corruption and anomalies surrounding flood control projects, saying that “worse than rising waters” is the greed of those entrusted to protect us.”
In a statement on September 17, the Sampaloc-based university called the misuse of public funds a "betrayal of public trust," saying that the funds meant to “save lives and protect homes” were misused for personal gains.
“This is not just bad governance—it is a betrayal of public trust, a deep injustice to the poor, and a theft from those most in need,” UST said in a statement.
Located on España Blvd. in Sampaloc, Manila, UST is part of the university belt and is often affected by flooding during heavy rainfall.
“At UST, we understand the pain of flooding. We've experienced it on our own campus—disrupting classes, risking health, and challenging our resilience,” the university said.
The Dominican-run school also urged that investigations into the country’s flood control mess must be "swift, independent, and fair" and that those responsible must be held "fully accountable, no matter what their position or influence is."
UST also urged the public to protect and support those who "courageously speak the truth" to help restore integrity in public service and governance.
“The university stands by its values of competence, commitment, and compassion. We call for truth, transparency, and accountability. These are not optional—they are necessary,” it said.
Aside from UST, other universities also condemned the alleged corruption in the flood control projects, issuing their respective statements.
Meanwhile, Adamson University, also located in the university belt, staged a protest calling for accountability in the flood control controversy.
