Deputy Minority Leader De Lima Urges Caution on 2025 Budget Reenactment Amid Corruption Concerns

House Deputy Minority Leader and Mamamayang Liberal party-list Representative Leila de Lima has voiced strong concerns regarding the potential reenactment of the 2025 national budget, which she describes as "the most corrupt budget" in the country's history. She remains hopeful that the bicameral conference committee (Bicam) of the House and Senate can reach a balanced agreement, especially concerning funds allocated for infrastructure projects under the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

"This is democracy at work. I hope members of the Bicam in both Houses of Congress weigh what is reasonable and most objective, given the limited time. Close mindedness should not prevail because the consequence will be grave—a reenacted budget of what is considered as the most corrupt budget in the country's history," De Lima remarked.

She stressed the risk of compromising the quality of vital infrastructure should requested DPWH funding fail to be restored, noting that it could undermine legitimate and necessary projects. The current year's budget would carry over to 2025 if the Senate and House do not finalize a new budget bill, potentially delaying government programs.

Understanding the Senate's position, De Lima urged Secretary Dizon and the DPWH to ensure that public funds are safeguarded against miscalculations, overpriced contracts, and corrupt practices. "I urge transparency to prevent billions of pesos from being wasted due to inaccurate computations or inflated projects allowing illicit kickbacks between politicians and complicit contractors," she stated.

De Lima expressed optimism that the Bicam will prioritize the Filipino people's welfare in their decisions. She also emphasized that passing the budget is only the beginning, highlighting the necessity for rigorous monitoring and accountability in project execution, particularly those susceptible to corruption and exploitation by syndicates.

"We must closely oversee the strict and prudent implementation of projects, especially those commonly targeted by corrupt individuals and government syndicates," she added.