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://usbqtto.771bg.com
"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.
- Indonesian leader fires ministers of finance and security after deadly protests
- Nartatez vows fair assignments, better resource management as new PNP chief
- Israel launches new spy satellite in 'message' to enemies
- House starts flood control probe
- EU massive fine against Google draws Trump threat
- Lawmaker linked to anomalous flood control projects in US for medical reasons, says House spokesman
- Major road closures in Manila announced for 2025 Bar Examinations
- Indonesia leader orders investigation into driver's protest death
- Marcos halts flood control budget; new commission to investigate expected 'in 48 hours'
- Plea written in blood saves Chinese woman trapped in locked room
