Lacson taunts some solons opposed to budget cuts

Senator Panfilo Lacson on Wednesday taunted some congressmen, who he said are protesting the budget cuts for “their infra projects aka PDAF.”

PDAF is Priority Development Assistance Fund also known as “pork barrel,” which was declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court in 2013.

“2019 National Budget standoff: Some congressmen are protesting the budget cuts for ‘their infra projects’ aka PDAF,”  Lacson said on Twitter.

“They need massive detox and full rehab so they can lick the more dangerous addiction for money. Tokhang may be good after all,” he also said, referring  to the  government’s anti-illegal drugs  operation.  

Asked in a text message if he was referring to congressmen opposing the proposed  shift to cash-based budgeting, the senator said: “Those who are holding hostage the 2019 budget and openly protesting because their projects in their districts will suffer.”

“What projects are they talking about? Didn’t the SC already declare the PDAF unconstitutional in Nov 2013?” Lacson further asked.

Malacañang and the House of Representatives have been in a standoff over the proposed 2019 national  budget.

READ: Diokno to House: No budget negotiations, no concessions

The  House strongly opposes Malacañang’s proposal to shift to cash-based system, which would require agencies to use their approved budgets within the fiscal year.

Under the present obligation-based system, however, budget spending by agencies is allowed within a two-year period.

Senate President  Vicente “Tito”  Sotto III said the Senate agreed in a caucus to support Malacanang’s proposal.

READ: Sotto: Senate backs cash-based 2019 budget

/kga