Malacañang has appealed for public calm following a protest staged in front of a contractor’s property in Pasig City, where demonstrators—including disaster survivors—threw mud and painted the word “magnanakaw” on the gate in response to alleged corruption in flood control projects.

Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro clarified that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to investigate the irregularities was meant to promote transparency and accountability—not incite unrest.

“The President never intended for this to happen,” Castro said during a press briefing. “As he emphasized, we are following due process.”

She reiterated that the investigation is being carried out in the interest of the Filipino people, aiming to shed light on questionable flood control projects and ensure that justice is served.

Warning Against Misinformation

Castro also cautioned the public against the spread of false information, which she said could inflame emotions and disrupt peace. “The President does not want chaos fueled by misinformation,” she explained. “This investigation is meant to enlighten, not enrage.”

Maintaining Peace and Order

Malacañang assured that concerned government agencies and law enforcement units have been instructed to maintain peace and prevent further incidents. “The President has directed our agencies not to allow such actions to escalate,” Castro said.

The Palace emphasized that civic engagement must remain peaceful and grounded in truth, as the government works to address public concerns and uphold accountability.