A major earthquake shook the world of politics and showbiz after news broke that Congressman Arjo Atayde was permanently dismissed as representative of Quezon City. Amidst the investigation into the alleged billion-peso anomaly in the government’s flood control project, Atayde was one of the first to be implicated in the alleged anomalous transactions.

This issue is not just a scandal—it is an event that has come to the fore of a Filipino people who are fed up with the repeated stories of corruption. According to reports, the project was funded by the government using billions of pesos in taxpayer funds. It was supposed to be a permanent solution to the country’s severe flooding. But instead of being implemented properly, it ended up in a complicated story of questioning the integrity of the leaders.

In the midst of the investigation, one of the witnesses who took the stand was the project contractor himself. In his disclosure, the names of several officials who allegedly received money in exchange for complicity in corruption emerged. One of the names mentioned: Arjo Atayde.

The released document allegedly shows that Atayde received millions of pesos even though no clear projects were implemented. What is sad is that the funds were supposed to be for communities that have been suffering from floods for a long time. Instead of helping the people, they allegedly ended up in the pockets of corrupt officials.

Many were shocked and disappointed. Arjo, who hails from the world of showbiz, was once considered by some as the new face of change in politics. But now, he seems to have become a symbol of the same rotten system he was supposed to change. For critics, this is proof that fame or name is not enough to be an effective public servant.

Mayor Joy Belmonte, the mayor of Quezon City, herself expressed her position on the issue. In a bold interview, she directly said, “You are fired.” She added that she will never tolerate any official who puts personal interests ahead of the public good. “What Congressman Atayde did is a great shame,” she added.

Following this, the decision to remove Atayde from office was immediately implemented. A clear step to show the public that no one—be it an artist or a politician—is above the law. This decision was received by the public with a mixture of anger and regret.

Many residents of Quezon City also spoke out. According to them, the trust they placed in Atayde was wasted. “He made us believe that he would be our voice in Congress, but in the end, it seems that all that mattered was money,” said one resident.

Social media was immediately filled with strong reactions. Most were angry, many were saddened, and almost everyone called for Atayde to be held accountable not only for his dismissal but also for the law. Many said that the removal from office was not enough—there should be a corresponding case and verdict as well.

According to political analysts, this incident should serve as a warning to all government officials. Popularity is not enough. Honest service, concern for the people, and integrity are the true basis of being a true public servant. When an official is blinded by money and power, he will surely fall in the eyes of the people.

But behind Atayde’s story, the people’s call goes deeper—that he is not the only one who should be held accountable. If it is true that the network of officials and contractors involved in the anomaly is wider, then everyone should be investigated. From the highest to the lowest ranks, no one should be spared if the government truly wants to clean up the system.

The funds in question here are not just any money. Billions of pesos from the sweat of workers, teachers, tricycle drivers, vendors, OFWs, and other ordinary Filipinos. This is money that should have been used to protect communities from floods, but ended up only for the personal benefit of a few.

This story is not new in our country, but with each report of corruption, the public’s call for real reform grows stronger. And in the case of Arjo Atayde, many believe that this is just the beginning. The real challenge is a thorough investigation, a fair trial, and concrete justice.

Firing is not enough. We need accountability. We need justice.

Ultimately, Arjo Atayde’s story is a reminder to all public servants: People’s trust is not a toy. When it is squandered, not only one’s position is lost—but also respect, honor, and the opportunity to serve the people.