The Philippine House of Representatives has raised the allocation for multi-purpose buildings and local access roads by ₱170 billion in the proposed 2027 national budget, while reducing funds for foreign-assisted infrastructure projects.
In a recent development concerning the 2027 national budget, the Philippine House of Representatives has reportedly increased funding for multi-purpose buildings and local access roads by more than ₱170 billion, according to the People’s Budget Coalition, a watchdog group monitoring government expenditures. AJ Montesa, spokesperson of the coalition, revealed in a DZBB Super Radyo interview that approximately 6,000 additional projects were included under these categories, reflecting a shift in budget priorities.
This realignment comes with significant reductions in the budget allocated for foreign-assisted projects (FAP) such as national roads, railways, and the ongoing Metro Manila Subway, which involve financing and cooperation with multilateral institutions. Montesa noted that the House’s decision favors funding projects at the district level, potentially at the expense of larger-scale infrastructure initiatives backed by international partners.
The watchdog group also highlighted concerns that multi-purpose buildings appear to be gaining preference over essential infrastructure like flood control projects. This issue echoes President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s 2025 State of the Nation Address, where he criticized public officials for profiting from flood control projects, underscoring the importance of transparency and proper allocation of public funds.
Efforts to reach House leaders for official comment have been made, with updates to follow as they become available. The budget adjustments mark a significant shift in the government’s infrastructure spending plan for 2027, affecting sectors crucial to national development and disaster resilience.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/1006445/house-upped-budget-for-multi-purpose-buildings-local-roads-by-p170-billion-watchdog/story/
