A report by the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ) labeled Ilocos Norte 1st District Representative Sandro Marcos and former House Speaker Leyte 1st District Representative Martin Romualdez as “pork barrel kings” after analyzing Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) fund distributions.
The analysis found that from 2022 to 2025, Marcos received ₱18.8 billion in projects, while Romualdez got ₱14.4 billion out of the DPWH’s ₱1.2 trillion in allocable funds. The report highlighted stark discrepancies in allocations relative to population, noting Ilocos Norte, with 320,000 residents, received more than districts like Rizal’s 1st District, which has 1.2 million people and was allotted only ₱7.8 billion.
The Palace confirmed awareness of the findings. Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro said, “The President trusts that Rep. Sandro knows how to respond to the issue.” She added the First Family is prepared for a lifestyle check if necessary.
Both Marcos and Romualdez have yet to respond publicly to the PCIJ report.