by Judith C. Songlingco · Published on BusinessMirror October 16, 2025
THE prevalence of natural disasters has significantly increased in recent decades, leading to substantial liabilities for damaged infrastructure, injuries and mental health issues. According to disaster epidemiology in 2025, climate-induced hazards like floods, storms and extreme heat are raising mortality rates, morbidity and economic losses, with countries like the Philippines facing the highest disaster risk.
For over two decades, the Philippines has experienced frequent storms and floods, accounting for nearly two-thirds of all disasters from 2000 to 2024. The International Disaster Database (EM-DAT) reports 201 storms and 109 floods, significantly more than other disasters like volcanic activity (18), epidemics (11) and earthquakes (25). The country’s vulnerability to natural disasters, particularly tropical storms and earthquakes, due to its location in the “Ring of Fire,” remains a concern. Despite this experience, anticipation and response strategies have not improved, leading to frustration.
Corruption significantly undermines the country’s ability to prepare for and respond to disasters. Many provinces affected by typhoons are among the poorest, and while improved infrastructure could mitigate these impacts, overlooked building codes and misused public funds hinder necessary investments. This not only prevents vital resources from reaching those in need but also highlights the struggles facing these communities.
Corruption extends beyond government to the private sector, including banking. Recent media reports indicate a rise in fraud and corruption risks within the banking and financial services industry. Cases of mortgage fraud, insider trading and kickbacks reflect systemic issues, with employees often collaborating with external parties, increasing the likelihood of unnoticed fraudulent activities.
Exploring regulatory responses and embracing a historic development
REGULATORY bodies are increasingly focusing on fighting corruption across various sectors, not just banking. However, challenges remain due to complex financial transactions and evolving financial crimes.
Dr. Donald Patrick L. Lim from the Blockchain Council of the Philippines, along with Secretaries Henry Rhoel R. Aguda and Vince B. Dizon, launched the “Integrity Chain,” a blockchain platform for transparency in national infrastructure projects. This initiative received support on September 30, 2025, at an event attended by over 50 organizations, including the Bank Marketing Association of the Philippines (BMAP).
In my recent “chikahan” with our PCEO after the 7.6 magnitude earthquake in Davao, he uttered: “Judith, inaalog na tayo ng Panginoon.” (Judith, the Lord is shaking us.) More Filipinos from the poorest socioeconomic bracket believe that calamities are God’s ways of punishing people for their evil ways, a survey by Pulse Asia Research Inc. revealed.
A rallying cry for moral action!
CHURCH leaders advocate that instead of perceiving hardships as divine curses, Filipinos should see accountability as a sacred duty. Cardinal José Advincula emphasizes that public demands for transparency and justice are “manifestations of the people’s collective moral conviction” and an obligation to suppress evil in society.
Transcending divine retribution
EXAMINING the consequences of corruption through human responsibility enables citizens to drive meaningful change. Encouraged actions include:
- Civic engagement: Vote wisely, participate in local oversight, and support independent watchdogs to promote accountability.
- Institutional reform: Advocate for transparent procurement, support open-data initiatives and strengthen anti-corruption bodies to foster integrity and trust.
- Spiritual resilience: We can nurture hope by coming together for community prayers, providing ethical leadership training and building grassroots solidarity. In unity, we can uplift each other and foster a spirit of resilience during challenging times.
For more information, visit bmap.org.ph or https://facebook.com/BankMarketingAssociationPH.
Judith C. Songlingco is the head of Corporate Affairs and Brand Marketing at the Philippine Business Bank (PBB) and the Secretary of the Bank Marketing Association of the Philippines (BMAP). She can be reached via judith.songlingco@yahoo.com. The writer’s views and her written piece do not necessarily reflect those of the BMAP, the BusinessMirror or the PBB.