Sen. Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan questioned whether the proposed ₱43.3 billion budget of the Department of Justice (DOJ) and its attached agencies for 2027 is enough to ensure faster, affordable, humane and equal access to justice.

During the Senate hearing on the DOJ budget on Wednesday, September 24, Pangilinan highlighted a 23% reduction in the National Bureau of Investigation’s (NBI) proposed funding, including an almost 90% cut in capital outlay, amid growing challenges involving cybercrime, scams, human trafficking and financial crimes.

“Makakatulong ang mga pondong ito para marinig ang mga biktima, mabigyan ng abogado ang mga mahihirap at matiyak na makatao at ang pagtrato sa mga nakakulong,” the Senator said.

Pangilinan said increased funding for the National Prosecution Service, Bureau of Corrections and Public Attorney’s Office could help victims, provide legal assistance to poor Filipinos and ensure humane treatment of detainees.

He also cited 45 agriculture economic sabotage complaints referred to the DOJ through May, with 35 returned for additional case buildup, as he questioned the government’s ability to secure convictions.

Pangilinan further noted that the proposed allocation for the National Coordination Center against Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation and Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Material is about ₱35.7 million, 61% lower than its 2026 enacted level.

He said the 2027 DOJ budget should prioritize filling 898 vacant NBI positions, upgrading investigative equipment and strengthening coordination among agencies to build stronger cases and protect victims.

“Ang 2027 DOJ budget dapat maging konkretong commitment na punan ang mga bakanteng posisyon, bigyan ng sapat na kagamitan ang mga imbestigador,” Pangilinan said.

“Bumuo ng mga matibay na kasong ilalatag sa korte. Protektahan ang mga biktima, panagutin ang mga salarin,” the senator added.

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