MANILA, Philippines — The House of Representatives has allegedly slashed the “pork barrel” allocations of at least 60 congressmen even after the ratification of the 2019 national budget.
This was the revelation made by Senator Panfilo Lacson on Friday, quoting information from some members of the House.
Lacson noted that it has already been more than two weeks ago since Congress ratified the P3.757 trillion national budget last February 8.
READ: After months of delay, Congress finally ratifies 2019 budget
Lacson however said that until now, the budget bill has not been transmitted to President Rodrigo Duterte for signature.
“I have it on good information that the House leadership is still waiting for several congressmen to finalize the submission of their individual projects. This is not to mention that insertions and realignments were made even after the bicameral report ratification,” Lacson said in a text message.
“While technically speaking, it may not constitute post-legislation enactment since the President has not yet signed the budget measure, we can see clear abuse of discretion especially if done without the concurrence of the Senate, it is also an utter disregard of the SC 2013 landmark ruling,” he said.
The senator is referring to the Supreme Court’s decision, declaring as unconstitutional the lawmakers’ Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) also known as the “pork barrel” funds.
“This latest caper that the House leadership is trying to pull off may also constitute violation of the Constitution,” Lacson said.
He also disclosed that some congressmen had expressed “anxiety” that the pork barrel allocations of at least 60 House members were slashed even after Congress’ ratification of the budget bill.
“Whatever it is, these are things that they do for greed. It’s a shame and revolting, to say the least,” Lacson added.
Asked how much was slashed in the congressmen’s pork, he said: “It’s of little significance. The point is—the delay is caused by malevolent acts.”
Lacson was among five senators who voted against the ratification of allegedly pork-laden 2019 budget.
The four others were opposition members led by Minority Leader Franklin Drilon, Senators Francis Pangilinan, Bam Aquino, and Risa Hontiveros. /muf
READ: Senate ratifies P3.757-T national budget for 2019