Despite being embroiled in a major corruption scandal in 2025, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) received the second-largest allocation in the 2026 national budget at P530.9 billion, according to data from the Department of Budget and Management.
The DPWH budget is second only to the Department of Education’s record-high P1.015 trillion, while Health, Interior, Defense, and Agriculture round out the top-funded agencies.
The DPWH had originally sought P850 billion for 2026, but a large portion was reallocated following revelations of an alleged kickback scheme involving flood control projects.
Executive Secretary Ralph Recto said flood control funds were diverted to key social agencies or booked as material savings, although some foreign-assisted projects remain with DPWH.
The scandal fueled renewed calls from lawmakers and watchdogs to cut DPWH funding and prioritize transparency and social services.
Source: PhilNews24 | January 6, 2026
