The political arena in the Philippines has erupted into chaos as Congressman Paolo “Pulong” Duterte finally breaks his silence and launches a decisive move that has his critics and political rivals trembling. For months, the Davao City Representative has been the subject of various attacks, but now, the “sleeping dragon” has awoken. In a bold and unexpected maneuver, Pulong has filed House Resolution No. 488, officially demanding a congressional investigation into the explosive allegations made by Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co. These allegations, which have been circulating like wildfire, involve the controversial “flood control” projects and purported budget insertions amounting to billions of pesos in the 2025 National Budget.

The resolution comes at a critical time when the integrity of the national budget is under intense scrutiny. The allegations suggest that massive amounts of public funds, supposedly allocated for infrastructure to protect citizens from calamities, may have been manipulated for political maneuvering. Paolo Duterte’s call for an investigation is seen by his supporters as a direct challenge to the leadership of the House, specifically targeting the narratives spun by his detractors. By pushing for this inquiry, Pulong is not only seeking to clear his name but is also demanding accountability from the highest levels of government, including President Bongbong Marcos and Speaker Martin Romualdez, whose names have been dragged into the controversy by Co’s statements.

The move has sent shockwaves through the “Quad Comm” and other opposing factions, who are reportedly scrambling to formulate a defense. Critics who previously clamored for investigations into the Duterte family are now finding themselves on the receiving end of a demand for transparency. The resolution highlights the need to verify the claims of corruption and ensuring that the people’s money is not being siphoned off into the pockets of “crocodiles” in Congress. The urgency of this investigation is underscored by the recent devastating floods that have ravaged parts of the country, raising the question: If billions were spent on flood control, why is the Philippines still drowning?

Adding fuel to the fire, Vice President Sara Duterte has also stepped forward, issuing a fiery statement that aligns with her brother’s actions. She expressed her deep understanding of the public’s anger and frustration, condemning what she describes as a government “addicted to greed.” Recall that VP Sara resigned from her post as Department of Education Secretary amidst attacks on her confidential funds—attacks she now claims were merely a smokescreen to cover up the massive corruption happening within the current administration’s budget deliberations. Her words confirm the suspicions of millions: that the budget for classrooms and essential services was allegedly treated like a “pork barrel” to be divided among favored politicians.

As the investigation looms, the behavior of certain party-list groups, disparagingly referred to as “Ngiwi” and “Akla” in online discourse, has come under fire. These groups, who were quick to persecute the Dutertes over smaller amounts, are now being accused of hypocrisy for their silence and hesitation to impeach or investigate the current administration despite the staggering billions involved in the flood control scandal. Their excuse of “lacking evidence” is being ridiculed by the public, especially when compared to the aggressive stance they took against VP Sara.

This development marks a turning point in the ongoing political war. Paolo Duterte’s action signifies that the opposition is no longer just defending; they are attacking the very heart of the alleged corruption. The call for Zaldy Co to present his evidence personally in court, rather than just on social media, is a challenge that could expose the intricate web of budget manipulation. With the “National Unity Party” and other administration allies trying to dismiss Co’s claims as lies, the push for a formal investigation is the only way to uncover the truth. The Filipino people are watching closely, realizing that the “UniTeam” facade has fully crumbled, revealing a battle between those who wish to expose the rot and those desperate to keep it hidden.