Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian on Wednesday stressed the importance of transparency in budget insertions, saying lawmakers must clearly explain their decisions on proposed amendments and project allocations.
In an exclusive interview with DZRH’s Dos Por Dos, Gatchalian said differences in policy positions between lawmakers and civil society groups are part of the process, but emphasized the need to explain budget decisions to the public.
“Ang pinakamaganda kasi, maipaliwanag at maging transparent sa mga action na ginagawa,” Gatchalian stated.
His remarks came amid concerns over reported funding reductions for major infrastructure projects, including the Metro Manila Subway and Manila South Railway, following amendments proposed by the House of Representatives.
Gatchalian mentioned the Senate is studying the funding adjustments and their possible impact on project implementation, noting that flagship infrastructure projects are expected to help ease traffic congestion.
“Importante yung mga flagship projects. Ito yung mga tinatawag nating foreign-assisted projects tulad ng subway, tulad ng commuter rail, tulad ng mga iba pang imprastraktura,” he explained.
On budget insertions, Gatchalian explained that Congress and the Senate may amend the proposed national budget to address public needs, but stressed that projects must be supported by studies, technical details, and coordination with local government units (LGUs).
“Ang normal process—ang tamang proseso, ito ginagawa rin namin sa Senado. For example, may hiling ang isang ahensya. Kumukuha muna kami ng detalye at kumukuha muna kami ng mga pag-aaral. At pinag-aaralan namin ito bago ina-amend yung budget,” he said.
He raised concerns over projects proposed without requests from or coordination with LGUs, as well as instances in which contractors allegedly influenced project selection.
The senator likewise mentioned feasibility studies, work programs, coordinates, and sufficient technical information are necessary to help prevent so-called “ghost projects.”
Gatchalian also cautioned that adding funding to certain projects may require cuts elsewhere, potentially affecting public services.
“Kung magbabawas ka naman sa mga pangangailangan natin, makaka-apekto ‘yun sa delivery of public services. So kailangan pag-aralan both sides, hindi lang dagdag nang dagdag, kundi yung pagbawas rin,” he said.
Furthermore, Gatchalian said the Senate is coordinating with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to review the proposed amendments and assess their potential impact on major infrastructure projects.
