Budget Concerns Over COVID-19 Health Workers Payments
Lanao del Sur 1st District Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong has called on the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and the Department of Health (DOH) to clarify why payment for COVID-19 health workers appears again in the 2026 budget proposal despite these payments being settled in 2025.
“Why are payments for COVID-19 health workers still included in the 2026 budget when they were already compensated in 2025? This needs to be explained,” Adiong said during a recent encounter with local officials.
Repeated Budget Allocations Spark Debate
Community members and local leaders have expressed confusion and concern over the repeated allocation of funds for the same group of health workers. Officials reported that this redundancy could indicate either a budgeting oversight or a delay in the disbursement process.
Some sources noted that the continued listing of payments for COVID-19 health workers might also reflect ongoing contractual obligations or new pandemic-related tasks assigned to these personnel. However, clarity is urgently needed to prevent possible mismanagement of public funds.
Calls for Transparency and Accountability
Local leaders emphasized the importance of transparency in the budgeting process, especially concerning pandemic-related expenditures. They urged the DBM and DOH to provide detailed explanations and documentation to justify the proposed allocations.
“It is crucial that we understand the basis for these budget proposals to ensure that public money is being used wisely and effectively,” community members said.
Implications for Future Health Budgets
Experts highlighted that unresolved questions about the 2026 budget for COVID-19 health workers could affect trust in government budgeting and impact future health programs. They advised a thorough review and public disclosure to maintain confidence in the system.
As the government prepares for the next fiscal year, stakeholders remain watchful of how these concerns will be addressed to safeguard both the welfare of health workers and the integrity of public funds.
For more news and updates on COVID-19 health workers, visit Filipinokami.com.
