President Marcos Orders 2026 Budget Review
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has instructed the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) along with Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon to conduct a thorough review of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) budget under the proposed 2026 National Expenditure Program (NEP). Officials reported that this directive aims to promote transparency and accountability in public spending.
Palace press officials emphasized that the sweeping review of the 2026 National Expenditure Program must lead to necessary adjustments. The goal is to ensure that the allocation of funds supports infrastructure projects that genuinely benefit Filipino citizens and uphold the proper use of the people’s money.
House Leaders Recommend Budget Reassessment
Party leaders in the House of Representatives have proposed returning the 2026 National Expenditure Program to the DBM for further review. They cited multiple issues related to fund allocations that need addressing before approval.
Deputy Speaker Ronaldo Puno of the National Unity Party and other party leaders conveyed their recommendation to House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez during a press briefing. Community members noted that this move seeks to correct discrepancies and ensure fiscal responsibility.
Contractor Licenses Revoked Over Flood-Control Projects
The Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board (PCAB) has revoked the licenses of nine companies linked to contractor Sarah Discaya. Sources said these firms were involved in government flood-control projects, raising concerns about compliance and legitimacy.
PCAB approved Board Resolution No. 075 on September 1, following Discaya’s sworn testimony before the Senate blue ribbon committee. She admitted owning and controlling the nine firms that participated in bidding for public contracts, officials reported.
Legal Defense Addresses Luxury Vehicle Seizure
Legal counsel for contractors Curlee and Sarah Discaya confirmed that the couple’s 12 luxury cars, recently seized by the Bureau of Customs (BOC), were legally registered and purchased within the country. Lawyer Cornelio Samaniego III clarified this point amid ongoing investigations.
The luxury vehicles were secured under a search warrant issued by a Manila court. Sources emphasized that the legal team is cooperating fully with authorities to resolve the matter.
For more news and updates on the 2026 National Expenditure Program, visit Filipinokami.com.
