Marcos likens anti-corruption drive to painful major surgery

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. compared the government's anti-corruption drive to major surgery necessary for the country's recovery, acknowledging the "suffering" Filipinos have endured.

He explained that excising corruption from a complex system requires major surgery and will inevitably cause pain, similar to removing cancer.

Marcos expressed optimism that the Philippines would heal from the disruptions and controversies that have led to resignations and leadership changes.

His comments were made during a fellowship dinner with journalists covering Malacañang, following various scandals and a denied accusation of plunder against him and his family.