Flood control budget faces intense Senate scrutiny

The Senate is now scrutinizing the flood control budget worth P107 billion after recent severe storms. Lawmakers want to know why massive flooding still occurs despite these high costs. Public anger rose after Metro Manila submerged during the last monsoon rains. Former Senator Panfilo Lacson also raised concerns about the Department of Public Works and Highways. He believes the government must account for every peso spent on disaster prevention.

Lacson flags uniform regional funds

Former Senator Lacson flagged “uniform” allocations of P180 million across various regions. He noted that such identical amounts often suggest “pork barrel” insertions. The former lawmaker also questioned a P3.1 billion allocation for regional evacuation centers. He said these items lack specific details or clear master plans for implementation. Lacson warned that “parked” funds often lead to wasted government resources. He urged the public works department to explain the suspicious uniformity in regional funding. Public works officials must prove that these projects are based on actual needs.

Strict rules for the flood control budget

The Senate plans to implement stricter rules for the flood control budget and other disaster funds. Senate President Francis Escudero pledged to eliminate lump-sum amounts in the national budget. He wants agencies to provide detailed programs before receiving any funding. Lawmakers also aim to restrict the use of confidential and secret funds. Senators highlighted the lack of coordination between local and national flood projects. They observed that many projects remain unfinished for several years. This delay leaves communities vulnerable to rising water levels during typhoons. The Senate will invite technical experts to evaluate current flood management strategies.

Ombudsman monitors the spending process

Ombudsman Samuel Martires said his office will watch every stage of the budget process. This monitoring ensures that officials use the money for its intended purpose. He emphasized the need for transparency in large-scale government projects. Government agencies must now justify their spending to the public and the Senate. The scrutiny aims to prevent corruption and improve disaster response efficiency. Filipinos expect better protection from floods as climate change brings more rain. The Senate inquiry continues as the 2025 budget deliberations begin soon. Accountability remains the main priority for the legislative and judicial branches. They want to see scientific data supporting the massive funding requests.