Malacañang on Sunday, December 28 clarified that Cabinet members enjoy no special protection from investigation, but stressed that accusations against them must be supported by solid evidence, not political claims.
Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro addressed allegations that five Cabinet officials were included in supposed “allocables” under the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in the proposed 2025 national budget.
Castro said President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has set a clear standard that accountability applies to everyone, regardless of position.
“Sino man ang masangkot sa mga cabinet members at mayroong mga ebidensya, ipagpatuloy lang po ang pag iimbestiga para matunton ang totoong maysala,” she said.
She emphasized that there would be no exemptions if wrongdoing is established.
“Sabi ng Pangulo, kahit sino pa yan, kailangan managot kung sila man ay totoong sangkot,” Castro added.
However, she noted that Malacañang does not carry the burden of proof, especially when claims are based on documents whose authenticity has yet to be verified.
“Nasa kamay na po ito ng mga investigating bodies tulad ng Ombudsman o DOJ,” she said.
Castro urged critics to pursue formal legal channels instead of turning allegations into media spectacles.
“Sinuman na may sapat na ebidensya ay maaari itong isumite sa ICI o dumiretso ng pagsasampa ng kaso sa Ombusdman man o sa DOJ.”