Davao City Rep. Paolo Duterte has raised concerns over new discretionary funds in the proposed 2026 national budget, citing nearly P1 trillion in unresolved corruption.
His remarks followed the approval of a P63.9-billion allocation for the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program, which is P37 billion higher than initially proposed.
Duterte criticized the realignment of P32.6 billion from DPWH flood control projects to AICS, calling the process non-transparent and prone to misuse.
He warned that the funds are being expanded quietly and may be used politically, with much of the aid failing to reach intended beneficiaries.
While Duterte questioned the accountability of such budget practices, Senate Finance Committee Chair Sherwin Gatchalian defended the increase, saying previous AICS allocations were fully utilized to support those in need.
Source: PhilNews24 | December 18, 2025
DUTERTE QUESTIONS USE OF DISCRETIONARY FUNDS IN 2026 NATIONAL BUDGET
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