The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) faced intense scrutiny during the Finance Subcommittee A briefing on Monday, October 20, 2025, as senators examined the agency’s proposed 2026 budget amid revelations of alleged “ghost” flood control projects that have eroded public trust.

DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon, who assumed office only in September, admitted that he was not fully knowledgeable about the details of the proposed budget submitted to Congress. The budget, he explained, was prepared in March and submitted in August, months before his appointment.

Despite this, Dizon emphasized that he ensured the directives of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. were implemented, specifically the reduction of the department’s budget through the removal of flood control–related projects.

“Nag-utos po ang ating mahal na pangulo na tanggalin ang lahat ng locally funded na flood control [projects] for 2026,” Dizon said. 

Under the National Expenditure Program (NEP), the DPWH was originally allocated ₱881.31 billion. However, the President ordered a reduction of ₱255.53 billion, bringing the agency’s proposed budget down to ₱625.78 billion. 

Dizon said that with the assistance of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), the DPWH thoroughly reviewed its project listings and removed duplicate and completed projects with unspent balances, overlapping road sections, as well as minor projects like rock netting, cat’s eyes, and studs.

“We tried our best na magkaroon ng tamang rationalization ng mga proyekto,” Dizon stated. “At ‘yung mga proyekto po na talagang mai-implement ng tama, honestly and efficiently.”

Senators raised long-standing concerns over arbitrary budget allocations, particularly favoring politically connected districts, and the persistent issue of “parking” funds. The committee stressed the need for transparency, equitable distribution, and long-term planning in infrastructure investments.

Senator Loren Legarda encouraged Secretary Dizon to carefully review the allocation of funds per district to ensure fair and needs-based budgeting.

“Again, without imputing any motives, sir [Dizon]… dapat baguhin natin ‘yung sistema na ‘kung sino po ang malapit sa kusina, siya po ang malaki,’” Legarda remarked. “I think it should be based on population, on the needs of the people, and on the challenges on the ground—kung bundok ba siya… population, land area, and configuration.”

The hearing underscored the administration’s effort to promote fiscal discipline and integrity in government spending, as the DPWH faces the challenge of restoring public confidence while ensuring that every infrastructure project is justified, efficient, and corruption-free.

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