In a pointed parliamentary inquiry during the House briefing on the proposed 2016 budget of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Representative Leila M. de Lima called for clarity and accountability amid growing concerns over alleged anomalies in the agency’s budget.

Addressing the committee, De Lima questioned the scope and direction of the proceedings, citing recent developments that have cast doubt on the integrity of the National Expenditure Program (NEP). “What exactly is the scope, extent, and coverage of today’s budget proceedings involving the DPWH budget, in light of recent developments?” she asked.

Her remarks referenced a September 3 press conference led by Deputy Speaker Ronaldo Puno, where House leaders proposed returning the NEP to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) due to numerous “inaccurate” and “questionable” entries. The Palace responded swiftly, ordering both the DBM and DPWH to conduct a thorough investigation into the alleged anomalies.

DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman later clarified that the agency would not reclaim the NEP but would instead submit corrections and clarifications. The House ultimately decided to proceed with the budget hearings, a move De Lima cautiously welcomed but scrutinized for procedural coherence.

De Lima also expressed concern over the House’s internal investigation into infrastructure irregularities, particularly flood control projects, being conducted by the Infra Committee. “I believe it is questionable for the House itself to investigate these anomalies,” she said, emphasizing the need for impartiality and transparency.

She proposed a more logical and orderly approach to the hearings, suggesting that members with direct knowledge of erroneous entries in the DPWH budget—especially those affecting their districts—be allowed to present their findings first. “Let those who know point out the questionable entries before we proceed with our usual majority-minority questioning,” De Lima urged.

Her inquiry underscored the importance of procedural clarity and the need to prioritize accountability in the face of mounting public scrutiny over infrastructure spending.

The House continues its deliberations on the DPWH budget, with lawmakers expected to raise further questions in the coming days.