Because of these problems, the CSO recommends removing the 256+ billion in pork and patronage-based programs in the house version of the budget, removing the whole 243 billion unprogrammed appropriations and holding all those involved in the corruption accountable to regain the public trusts.

He further explained that "Pork Scams" have evolved into three forms stressing how these categories show political discretion and lack of transparency allowing misuse of public funds.

"The National Budget is the BLOODSTREAM of the government. It was meant to give life to our schools and communities but, it was now being poisoned by pork, patronage and corruption".

Alfonso Jose "AJ" Montesa, adviser of the People's Budget Coalition.

He also emphasizes how he wants people to understand the process and the budget itself.

"I know how 'technical' the matter is, that's why it is the responsibility of the Congress and Senate to let the society understand the technicalities so that they can participate", he explained.

The Senator wants to focus on the further improvement on the transparency and accountability in the budget process. He aims to learn more from the CSOs by taking their suggestions, advices and "tips".

"Hindi kita nilagay dyan para depensahan itong departamento at yung budget na sinumite. Nilagay kita dyan para repormahin at baguhin". PBBM said to Sec. Dizon.

The Secretary showed an example by presenting photos of a Project under the Cordillera Administrative Region wherein the funding allocations (indicated by colored bars) has presented irregularities as the amount needed for this year (2025) are the same as the last year's budget.

DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon emphasizes the “Red Flag No. 4” Projects under the 2025 GAA, noting that 798 out of 946 items have reappeared in the 2026 NEP, which the committee also observed to contain several items exactly the same or very similar to those in the previous year’s budget.

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