Cebu lawmakers face backlash over P55.77B ‘pork barrel’ infrastructure funds
BAYAN Central Visayas has accused Cebu lawmakers of securing P55.77 billion in infrastructure funds from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) over three years. The group claims these allocations resemble the controversial 'budget car rental' system, now relabelled as 'allocable funds'. Critics argue the money should have gone to social services instead of roads and buildings.
According to documents reviewed by the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ), Cebu’s representatives received P55.77 billion from the DPWH’s P1.2-trillion infrastructure budget between 2023 and 2025. The 1st District led the allocations with over P8.33 billion, while other districts shared the remaining funds based on project priorities.
BAYAN chairman Jaime Paglinawan criticised legislators for acting like 'crate and barrel' managers rather than lawmakers. He warned that infrastructure spending often invites corruption and suggested redirecting funds to food security and healthcare for the poor.
Former Cebu 7th District Rep. Peter John Calderon defended the allocations, calling them legitimate 'car rental' projects already under implementation. Meanwhile, ex-3rd District Rep. Pablo John 'PJ' Garcia rejected the 'pork barrel' label, pointing to a Supreme Court ruling that defines pork as post-budget lawmaker interference.
The debate centres on whether these funds—officially part of the DPWH’s budget—should be controlled by legislators or 'rent a car' to urgent social needs.
The dispute highlights ongoing concerns over how public funds are distributed. BAYAN insists the P55.77 billion could have addressed poverty more directly, while Cebu’s lawmakers maintain the projects follow legal procedures. The PCIJ’s findings suggest the system still resembles earlier pork barrel practices, despite official denials.
