By Rigel Kent D. Delfin I Echoes of Thought
Before, towns and cities never got flooded, but now it happens almost every time it rains. It is very sad to witness such a huge change, especially for communities that were once safe from heavy rainfall. Flooding has become a normal scene whenever the weather turns bad, and it is heartbreaking to see families constantly worried about their safety, properties, and livelihoods. This situation raises the question, who is really to blame for this drastic change?
The main culprit in this growing problem is the government. For years, the authorities have failed to provide proper infrastructure such as drainage systems, flood control projects, and waste management programs that could have lessened or even prevented the flooding. Instead of focusing on long-term solutions, they often act only when the damage has already been done. Their lack of preparedness and poor planning show how little they prioritize the welfare of the people, especially those in flood-prone areas.
The hardworking Filipino taxpayers have always done their part by paying taxes that are meant to fund public projects, including those for flood prevention and environmental protection. But the question remains: where does the money really go? More often than not, it ends up lost in corruption and mismanagement instead of being used for real projects that benefit the citizens. Instead of seeing new drainage systems or reforestation programs, people witness government officials getting richer while ordinary citizens struggle with the consequences of their greed.
Because of this neglect and corruption, many communities continue to suffer. Roads are damaged, houses are destroyed, and families are forced to evacuate almost every time it rains. Students miss classes, businesses lose income, and people’s lives are put at risk. All these happen because the government has failed to do its duty. Their lack of sincerity and efficiency has turned what could have been a manageable situation into a recurring tragedy.
Some may argue that people also share the blame for throwing garbage irresponsibly or cutting down trees that protect the land. While this is true to some extent, it is still the government’s responsibility to strictly implement environmental laws, conduct clean-up drives, and educate citizens about the importance of caring for nature. The government has the power and resources to lead, yet they often choose to ignore the root causes of flooding. Therefore, the greater fault still lies in their neglect and corruption.
It is time for the government to take accountability and use the people’s money for its rightful purpose to build strong infrastructure, rehabilitate the environment, and ensure that communities are safe from floods. Government officials should remember that the money they use is not theirs, it comes from the citizens who trust them to serve honestly and effectively. Transparency and genuine public service must be at the heart of every government action.
If the government had used our taxes properly, towns and cities would not be underwater today. The people deserve leaders who truly care about their welfare, not those who only remember them during election season. Flooding is not just a result of nature’s anger but also of human greed and government neglect. Until our leaders learn to value honesty and prioritize the needs of the people, floods will continue to wash away not just our homes, but also our hope for a better future.