Prove GAA misuse, Magalong told

Malacañang has called on Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong to present evidence to support his allegation the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA) is being utilized as an election fund.

“We respect Mayor Magalong’s perspective, but it would have been more constructive had he presented evidence to substantiate his claim about the GAA’s use as an election fund,” Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said on Thursday.

The challenge came amid reports that alleged lawmakers received social amelioration or Department of Social Welfare and Development funds when they accompanied House Speaker Martin Romualdez in provincial engagements. Castro maintained that DSWD assistance isn’t exclusively available to politicians.

“After consulting with the DSWD, we confirmed their services are accessible to all qualified individuals, regardless of political affiliation,” she said.

“Any citizen — including non-incumbent candidates — may request assistance through proper DSWD channels after undergoing vetting procedures,” she added.

Castro urged Magalong to submit documentary evidence to the Presidential Communications Office to facilitate an investigation of potential wrongdoing.

“Vague allegations damage both government credibility and innocent politicians’ reputations,” she said. “Specific evidence regarding GAA misuse would enable proper action.”

Malacañang also expressed willingness to address supposed death threats against Magalong contingent upon the submission of evidence.

“As a former police official with investigative expertise, Mayor Magalong understands the importance of evidence,” Castro said. “Should he demonstrate [that] these threats [are] related to his GAA allegations, we stand ready to provide the appropriate security measures.”