Palace: Claims that admin will use public funds for 2016 polls baseless

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MANILA — Malacanang on Wednesday downplayed accusations that next year’s Php3-trillion budget would be used to support the administration’s 2016 campaign.

“Walang batayan at walang katuwiran ang paglikha ng ganyang scenario,” said Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr.

Coloma stressed the government has proven its honesty and integrity in the prudent allocation of public funds, as it conforms to the principle of “matuwid na daan” (straight path).

Of the Php3-trillion budget for 2016, the government has earmarked the biggest chunk for the Department of Education (DepEd) with Php436.

5 billion and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) with PhP 40.

14 billion.

The combined budgets on the DepEd and the DPWH represent more than a quarter of the national budget.