Senate to scrutinize DPWH’s ₱107.4-billion flood-control budget

Abi Sarabia M., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
August 31, 2026

Photo courtesy: Senate of the Philippines

MANILA, Philippines — The Senate will closely examine the Department of Public Works and Highways’ proposed ₱107.4-billion budget for flood-control projects in 2027 to ensure that public funds are directed toward necessary and legitimate infrastructure.

Senate finance committee chairperson JV Ejercito said each proposed project would be assessed based on its necessity, feasibility and actual benefit to communities.

The scrutiny follows investigations into alleged irregularities involving flood-control funds, including projects reported to be nonexistent, substandard or built in areas that were not considered priorities.

Ejercito said the government needs a long-term infrastructure master plan that future administrations will be required to follow. Such a plan, he added, would promote continuity and prevent projects from being selected based on political or financial interests.

Flood-control spending should prioritize the country’s 10 most flood-prone areas and major river basins instead of funding scattered projects without a clear strategic basis, according to the senator.

Ejercito also urged the DPWH to complete unfinished flood-control facilities before proposing new ones, warning that incomplete and disconnected projects may worsen flooding rather than prevent it.

Beyond conventional flood-control structures, he said the government should consider major projects such as floodways, water-impounding facilities and dams. These could collect excess rainwater during the wet season and potentially provide additional water supplies during dry periods.

The proposed allocation forms part of the DPWH’s budget under the ₱7.2-trillion National Expenditure Program for 2027. Ejercito said the Senate would approve only projects that could effectively reduce flooding and pass a strict review for irregularities.