Socialite-vlogger Small Laude has spoken up on the raging controversy surrounding the alleged “ghost projects” in the country’s flood control program, expressing frustration over corruption that continues to burden Filipinos.
In her latest vlog, Laude drew a pointed comparison while waiting for her ride in a robotaxi service in the United States.
“Ghost driver naman siya. Pero at least, it’s not a ghost project,” she said, before adding: “I’m paying my taxes properly. Shame on you guys. Kawawa naman ang Pinoy.”
Her remarks came amid the ongoing investigations by the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee and the House of Representatives into the Department of Public Works and Highways’ (DPWH) multibillion-peso flood control projects. Lawmakers have flagged at least 60 projects suspected of being “ghost projects.”
Laude’s statement immediately drew strong reactions online.
“Saludo talaga sa mga old rich na yumaman through hard work, hindi galing sa nakaw. Sila ang tunay na malaking ambag sa lipunan,” one netizen wrote.
Another commented: “Louder Ma’am Small! Ikaw na ang Patron Saint ng mga LAUDEr!”
“Diba nakakagalit talaga? Pag hindi tayo nakapagbayad ng tax, kaso ang aabutin natin. Pero sila, ni kaso o kulong sa pagnanakaw ng tax, wala!!!” another user added.
Laude joins a growing list of celebrities and public figures—including Vice Ganda, Dingdong Dantes, Carla Abellana, Edu Manzano, Anne Curtis, Bianca Gonzalez, Nadine Lustre, Kris Bernal, Gabbi Garcia, Jodi Sta. Maria, Sarah Geronimo, Matteo Guidicelli, Karylle, and Iza Calzado—who have used their platforms to call out corruption in light of the flood control scandal.
