The proposed 2027 national budget will refrain from allocating funds for new flood control initiatives, focusing instead on finishing pending projects and bridging operational gaps—particularly across vulnerable areas in Luzon—Senate Deputy Majority Leader JV Ejercito stated on Tuesday.
The government previously froze appropriations for new flood mitigation ventures in the 2026 national expenditure plan following the discovery of corrupt practices and “ghost” projects within the sector.
However, Ejercito emphasized that resuming targeted financial support is vital after severe Southwest Monsoon (Habagat) rains left substantial portions of Luzon inundated.
“But we saw the impact. When the rains continue, Central Luzon—from Tarlac, Pampanga, and Bulacan to Metro Manila—is really underwater,” the senator remarked.
“In my view, we have to resume funding, but only for uncompleted projects. We should complete unfinished flood control projects and address the gaps,” Ejercito noted.
To ensure proper execution, Ejercito asserted that all continuing works must strictly conform to an established master plan, feature a valid feasibility study, and address high-risk areas located within the nation’s 10 most flood-prone provinces.
For projects lacking an official master plan submission, approval from local governing bodies will be mandatory to verify their necessity.
“That’s why we’re requiring Regional Development Council approval, or at least provincial council approval, so that the province itself knows that the project is needed. If the RDC or provincial council approves it, it means the project is necessary,” Ejercito explained.
“No new projects, complete all the uncompleted projects and close the gaps,” he added.
The senator also observed that unfreezing funds for incomplete infrastructure would help restore public spending velocity. The sharp deceleration in state spending during previous quarters—triggered by the flood control scandal—subsequently led to an unintended economic slowdown.
“We now have to accelerate spending, but at the same time, without, of course, sacrificing accountability. We still need to monitor it closely,” Ejercito said.
He further called on civic watchdogs and civil society groups to collaborate with government agencies by reporting any irregularities for immediate investigation.
Under the proposed 2027 national budget, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has been earmarked ₱107.4 billion dedicated to maintaining, repairing, and upgrading existing flood control infrastructure.