Lacson Alleges DPWH Official Sought Budget “Insertions,” Marcos Vows to Expose “Greedy Flood-Control Profiteers”
MANILA, Philippines - Senator Panfilo Lacson has revealed that a Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) undersecretary solicited “insertions” into the proposed 2026 budget, prompting a firm commitment from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to investigate and prosecute those profiting from possibly anomalous flood control projects. The developments come amid scrutiny of the DPWHS proposed P881.3 billion spending plan for next year, including a substantial P250.8 billion earmarked for flood control.Lacson, in a post on X (formerly Twitter) Sunday, assured President Marcos of his determination to expose profiteering, stating, “You have given me and my team the firm resolve to do our part in exposing, even compiling solid evidence to nail these ‘greedy flood-control profiteers’ and their cohorts both in the public and private sectors. We have your back, Sir.”
The President, visibly upset in a teaser video for his podcast Saturday night, expressed his frustration with Filipinos struggling while others profit, saying ordinary citizens “work very hard for their families, yet suffer.”
The controversy has also sparked calls for a budget realignment. Senate President Francis Escudero wants to shift funds from the proposed flood control budget to prioritize health,education,and food production. He noted the P250.8 billion allocated for flood control represents one-third of the entire DPWH budget and is twenty times the P13 billion proposed for new school building construction. “If we let this stand as it is, this budget will be deluged with criticism,” Escudero stated.
The DPWH’s proposed budget breakdown includes P108 billion for “asset preservation,” P182.5 billion for “network growth,” P52 billion for “bridges,” P15.4 billion for “local programs,” and P167.8 billion for “convergence and special support.” Escudero has urged the Department of Budget and Management to “recast the DPWH budget and shrink the flood control funds to the required minimum for places where people are really in harm’s way when the rains come.”
Separately, Senator Erwin tulfo announced plans to file a resolution Monday to review the Contractors’ License Law (Republic Act 4566) and the operations of the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board (PCAB). Tulfo questioned the legality and ethics of requiring PCAB membership – and board positions - to be held by licensed contractors,citing a clear conflict of interest.
“how can thay monitor, oversee, and regulate construction projects… if they themselves are also contractors?” Tulfo asked.He believes the current system has “become a gateway for corruption” and warrants reform or even abolition.
The DPWH website lists Maria Catalina Cabral as undersecretary for planning,Public-Private Partnership,and Data Management Services. The investigations are ongoing, with a focus on ensuring transparency and accountability in the allocation of public funds for critical infrastructure projects.