Caloocan Representative Edgar Erice expressed disappointment over the 2027 national budget passed by the Philippine House of Representatives, highlighting concerns regarding the repeated large allocation for public works projects, perceived inequities in fund distribution, and lack of transparency in the budget process.
Caloocan 2nd District Representative Edgar Erice publicly criticized the 2027 Philippine national budget, recently passed on second reading by the House of Representatives, due to its substantial allocation to public works projects and issues regarding fund transparency and equity. Erice voiced his embarrassment during a public statement on the TV program Unang Hirit, referencing President Marcos’s 2025 State of the Nation Address admonishing lawmakers to be ashamed of certain budget practices.
Erice objected to the continuation of a large fund allocation towards public works, noting that in past years, such funds were reallocated from flagship projects only to be funneled again into public works in this budget cycle. He highlighted a realignment of approximately PHP 11 billion to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), with changes made to projects including some reductions and increases. Erice pointed out that his district received PHP 269 million for public works, whereas Bulacan province got around PHP 11 billion in total, suggesting disparities in allocation.
He also reiterated criticism of the Local Government Support Fund (LGSF), which he described as functioning like a “presidential pork barrel.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/1005633/erice-ashamed-that-2027-national-budget-has-another-large-public-works-allocation/story/
