The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) clarified on Monday that it is not delaying or withholding funds for public works projects, following complaints from lawmakers about the alleged slow release of allocations.
In an interview on DZRH’s Dos Por Dos, DBM Usec. Goddes Hope Libiran emphasized that the agency strictly follows the 2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA) and does not implement policies outside the law.
“Ginagalang po ng DBM sa pamumuno po ni Rolando Toledo, yung oversight role ng Congress. Pero, Mahalaga po na linawin po natin yung ilang factual at legal points para po siguro matama po yung pagkakaunawa ng ating mga kababayan kasi ayaw natin na ma-mislead sila."
Libiran explained that some locally funded infrastructure projects under the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) underwent amendments introduced by Congress. These included changes in project descriptions, station limits, and geographic coordinates.
“Hindi po nagpapaliban ng DDM sa paglalabas ng pondo. Hindi namin po wini-withhold yan at hindi rin po kami nagiimbento o gumagawa ng mga bagong policies na wala sa batas,” Libiran said.
“Lahat po kasi ng budget releases natin, sumusunod doon sa tinatawag natin na 2026 General Appropriations Act," she added.
These adjustments altered projects originally submitted by the Executive in the National Expenditure Program (NEP). Libiran noted that Congress’ intent was to ensure safeguards for these projects, including detailed descriptions per project.
The DBM also issued a formal press statement, clarifying the procedural aspects behind the release of funds. Projects affected by Congress Introduced Changes and Adjustments (CICA) cannot be included in the Allotment Order (GAAAO) at the start of the fiscal year.
Instead, they are placed under For Issuance of SARO (FISARO), which requires submitting full documentation and project prioritization by the implementing agency.
In the case of the cited DPWH projects, the initial FISARO request was withdrawn to allow completion of supporting documents. The department assured that the full requirements will be submitted as soon as possible for the lawful release of funds.
Libiran also emphasized that DBM does not require projects to be bidded out before processing funds. Agencies are advised to prepare procurement processes in advance but remain short of award until legislative approval is finalized.
"Very clear po doon sa President's veto message para po sa 2026 GAA na yung mga Congress introduced changes and adjustments, yung tinatawag po natin na CICA, nangangailangan po yan ng karagdagang validation at clearance mula sa Office of the President bago po mailabas yung pondo," Libiran explained.
The DBM affirmed its commitment to work closely with Congress and implementing agencies to facilitate the timely and lawful implementation of infrastructure projects for the benefit of the Filipino people.
