Rep. Panaligan Denies Role in Flood Control Projects
Oriental Mindoro 1st District Rep. Arnan Panaligan firmly denied any involvement in the damaged flood control projects recently flagged by Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson. He emphasized that the flood control projects in his district were proposed and implemented solely by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
During an interview at his Batasang Pambansa office, Panaligan stressed that these flood control projects were already part of the National Expenditures Program (NEP) when it arrived at the House of Representatives. “The proponent is no other than the DPWH,” he clarified.
Understanding the Flood Control Projects’ Approval Process
The NEP, which outlines proposed government funding from the executive branch, undergoes scrutiny by the House committee on appropriations. Once altered by Congress, it becomes the General Appropriations Bill (GAB), and after the President’s signature, the General Appropriations Act (GAA).
“The flood control projects for Naujan, Baco, and other areas are itemized in the NEP,” Panaligan explained. “We did not propose these projects. Congress approves the budget, but it does not manage the implementation or disbursement of funds. That responsibility lies with DPWH.”
Panaligan Highlights DPWH’s Role in Project Implementation
The congressman pointed out that while Congress approves budgets, it neither creates project plans nor selects contractors. “The DPWH Regional Office handles the design, bidding, awarding contracts, and payments,” he said. “None of the contractors are from Mindoro; they are regional or national in origin.”
He added, “Many think Congress finances these projects directly, but in reality, the projects are specified in the NEP and cannot be altered by lawmakers.”
Context of Allegations and Political Reactions
Panaligan’s statement came after Senator Lacson delivered a privilege speech exposing alleged anomalies in flood control projects nationwide. Although Lacson did not directly name Panaligan, he showed a social media post from the congressman’s Facebook account listing flood control and river protection projects “funded by his office.” Lacson remarked, “He openly lists projects — hold your breath — funded by his office.”
However, Panaligan maintained that the projects were implemented by DPWH and that the congressman had no role in seeking or managing them.
Presidential Stand on Corruption in Infrastructure Projects
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., in his fourth State of the Nation Address, condemned government officials and contractors who allegedly benefited from kickbacks in infrastructure projects. “They should be ashamed of themselves,” he declared.
The president’s remarks followed Lacson’s warning that nearly half of the country’s P2 trillion flood control funds from 2011 onwards might have been lost, prompting calls for a thorough review of all projects.
Marcos also released a list of contractors tied to these projects, prompting observers to investigate connections between contractors and politicians.
For more news and updates on flood control projects, visit Filipinokami.com.
