Senator Kiko Pangilinan has raised fresh concerns over the proposed flood control budget, citing lingering issues from the 2025 bicameral conference (Bicam) proceedings that fueled the so-called flood control scandal.
In an interview on DZRH Tuesday, Pangilinan stressed that a major part of the scandal originated from insertions and budget adjustments made during Bicam, which led to allegations of overpricing in government flood control projects.
“Let us remember, a large part of the flood control scandal stems from what happened in Bicam in 2025. That is why we are being very careful in Bicam now to ensure that overpricing insertions do not happen again,” he said.
Pangilinan pointed out that the current budget being proposed was prepared by the previous Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) administration.
He recalled hearings that exposed attempts to circumvent the National Expenditure Program (NEP), noting Secretary Dizon’s acknowledgment that the materials requested were overpriced.
“The department itself admitted the materials were overpriced. But the question now is, why declare it overpriced and then suddenly want to restore it? We need a clear explanation,” Pangilinan added.
Analysts warn that any repeat of past budget abuses could undermine public trust, particularly as the country faces recurring flooding risks due to extreme weather events.