Photo credit: Senate PH

Senate President Vicente Sotto III recently defended the changes and additions made during budget deliberations, insisting that amendments or insertions are a regular, necessary part of the legislative process in crafting the national spending plan.

Amendments Mischaracterized by Corruption Concerns

Sotto acknowledged that the controversy surrounding alleged "ghost projects" and failed flood control initiatives has unfairly created a negative impression of all budget changes.

"It is unfortunate that the issue on ghost projects and failed flood control projects affect and generalized all amendments as illegal or improper," Sotto stated.

Positive Impact on Local Communities

The Senate President stressed that many of these amendments are vital for funding critical infrastructure and services that directly benefit citizens, especially those in distant areas.

He cited examples such as funding for additional classrooms, farm-to-market roads, and bridges. Sotto noted that some of these much-needed projects had been previously neglected or merely tagged as "for later release" (FLR), meaning they likely would not have been funded otherwise.

Commitment to a More Open 2026 Process

Looking ahead, Sotto assured the public that the Senate would take steps to enhance accountability in future budget cycles.

"Rest assured that for the 2026 budget, the Senate will institute changes for greater transparency, people’s participation and accountability," he promised, signaling a clear intent to build public trust in the budget allocation process.