Tulfo: BBM halts flood control projects over irregularities

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered the temporary suspension of several flood control projects due to reported irregularities, Senator Erwin Tulfo revealed on Wednesday.

Speaking to reporters, Tulfo said he received the information from a source in the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) who confirmed that the President had directed that funds for flood control projects be withheld.

“Just so you know, President Bongbong Marcos has placed a lot of flood control projects on hold,” Tulfo said.

“He hasn’t approved the release of funds for flood control yet because he saw some problems. You can ask Malacañang about it. I was told by someone. The DBM said the President ordered it to be held back — and I said, that’s a good move,” he added.

Tulfo underscored the importance of allowing the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to implement flood mitigation projects without interference from lawmakers.

“What right does a senator or congressman have to implement flood control projects? None,” he said.

The senator stressed that legislators should stick to their primary role — lawmaking.

“What I want is for the DPWH to be allowed to do their job. Give the money directly to them so no one ends up pointing fingers later,” he said.

Tulfo also said he plans to initiate a Senate investigation into reports that some lawmakers were meddling in national flood control initiatives.

“I will push for an investigation — not just that, I will make sure the national government, not politicians, implements these flood control projects,” he said.

“Not congressmen, not senators — but the DPWH, the national government,” he stressed.

Earlier this week, Malacañang said the President had ordered all agencies concerned to fully mobilize their resources in response to the widespread flooding caused by days of heavy rain.

Among his directives: the immediate clearing of drainage systems in Metro Manila and other flood-prone areas.