MANILA, Philippines — For his significant contributions to combating corruption and promoting transparency throughout his 23 years of public service, Sen. Joel Villanueva has been honored by the prestigious South Korea-based Anti-Corruption Civil Movement General Federation.
The ACCMGF led by its president Weon Deokho recognized Villanueva with the “Person of Sincere Anti-Corruption Integrity” award during a recent ceremony held at the Senate ceremonial hall in Pasay City.
“As someone whose career in public service has been deeply influenced by the anti-corruption movement, receiving this World Integrity Prize is truly a great honor. This recognition strengthens my resolve to continue the fight for transparency and accountability,” Villanueva said.
“It is not an easy task to fight the twin evils of graft and corruption. I believe that you have to increase accountability to all public offices,” Villanueva said.
The ACCMGF, an influential organization authorized by South Korea’s Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission, collaborates with over 300 entities globally, spanning politics, education and media among others, to promote integrity and transparency.
The senator said the recognition would further strengthen his resolve to be vigilant in ensuring integrity in government activities as he emphasized that the battle against corruption remains an ongoing challenge.
“The fight against corruption is far from over. It has evolved into new forms, influenced by the advancement of technology and an increasingly liberal approach to societal issues, yet we remain hopeful because organizations like the ACCMGF remind us that we can still make a difference,” Villanueva said.
Villanueva’s commitment to the anti-corruption movement began at the young age of 26 when he served as chairman and representative of the Citizens’ Battle Against Corruption party-list.
During his time in the House of Representatives from the 12th to the 14th Congresses, he was an advocate for anti-corruption measures such as the Procurement Act, Anti-Red Tape Act and the Freedom of Information bill, a cause he still champions to this day.
“When I started being a member of Congress and now in the Senate, every time we pass a measure, I would always go for higher penalties for public officials because the public office is a public trust,” he added.
Villanueva was elected as senator in 2016, and reelected in 2022, serving as Senate majority leader from July 2022 to May 2024.
“When I joined the Senate in 2016, one of my priority bills was the establishment of the Independent Commission Against Corruption, inspired by the Korean Independent Commission Against Corruption,” he said.