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.
DPWH exec asked lawmaker to make budget insertions — Lacson
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.
"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., This news data comes from:http://www.gangzhifhm.com
DPWH exec asked lawmaker to make budget insertions — Lacson
"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.
"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.
- PH’s newest warship arrives in Manila, joins BRP Jose Rizal, BRP Gabriela Silang
- Australia to tackle deepfake nudes, online stalking
- Isko Moreno files charges against contractor over illegal demolition of sports complex in Manila
- Thousands rally in Serbia and accuse police of brutality at anti-government demonstrations
- House starts flood control probe
- Zelenskyy meets European leaders on Ukraine security guarantees
- Trump escalates crackdown threats with Chicago 'war' warning
- Discaya’s construction companies competed against each other during biddings
- Prince Harry visits late queen’s grave, stirs King Charles meeting speculation
- Thai court dismisses prime minister over compromising phone call with Cambodian leader
