MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Panfilo Lacson said an official of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) called up one lawmaker to make early insertions in the proposed national budget for 2026.
The senator on Sunday said a caller claiming to be "Undersecretary Cabral" from DPWH called up a staff member of Senate Minority Leader Vicente Sotto III shortly after the May 2025 senatorial elections.
DPWH exec asked lawmaker to make budget insertions — Lacson, This news data comes from:http://ktrbxacg.yamato-syokunin.com
"One 'Undersecretary Cabral' called Sotto's staff and told them to insert what they wanted to insert [in the National Expenditure Program (NEP) for 2026]," Lacson said in a radio interview.
"If Sen. Sotto was one of those called by that executive, who else could have been contacted similarly and submitted their proposed insertions?" he said in Filipino.
DPWH exec asked lawmaker to make budget insertions — Lacson
"Senator Sotto told me he did not submit anything because we are advocating transparency and good governance. The question now is, how many members of the House and Senate made insertions?" Lacson added.
- PNP disputes China's crime advisory, says Philippines crime rate dropped
- SSS pension reform program starts in September
- Filipino member of AHOF K-pop group says Manila concert a dream come true
- 25 countries suspend postal services to US over tariffs – UN
- Marcos sacks PNP Chief Torre, saying it was 'difficult but necessary'
- DOST, SM Supermalls partner to empower businesses with sustainable practices
- Denmark summons US envoy over 'attempts to influence' Greenland
- Widespread flooding in Quezon City due to heavy rains, stranding commuters, rendering most roads impassable to vehicles
- DPWH Secretary Dizon orders perpetual ban of Wawao Builders, Syms Construction for ghost projects
- Marcos orders 'sweeping review' of DPWH budget under 2026 NEP
