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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Malacañang tells House critics: Clean your house first

Malacañang tells House critics: Clean your house first

Published Sep 6, 2025 07:36 pm

At A Glance

  • In a statement, Bersamin rejected what it described as attempts to hold the budget process "hostage" by political theatrics.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin (PPA Pool)
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin (PPA Pool)
Malacañang bristled at attempts by some members of the House of Representatives to pin the blame for alleged anomalies in the proposed 2026 budget on the Executive, urging lawmakers instead to confront corruption within their own ranks.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said this after House leaders floated the idea of sending the National Expenditure Program (NEP) back to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), a move that could delay deliberations.
In a statement, Bersamin rejected what it described as attempts to hold the budget process “hostage” by political theatrics.
“The Members of the Cabinet will not tolerate any attack on the integrity and reputation of the Executive Branch,” he said Saturday evening, Sept. 6.
The Palace official likewise said the Cabinet “strongly objects to the recent spins” from House members calling to return the NEP to Malacañang.
“All our investigations into the anomalies will be futile if the sources of corruption remain unchecked,” Bersamin said.
“Hence, we urge the House of Representatives to heed the demand of the people for full accountability: CLEAN YOUR HOUSE FIRST!” Bersamin declared.
President Marcos has already directed the DBM and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to review questionable items in the DPWH budget and submit errata to Congress.
Malacañang has stressed that the review mechanism is already underway and that legislative scrutiny during budget hearings remains the proper venue to resolve concerns.
President Marcos earlier said he would not hesitate to veto dubious provisions once identified.

Related Tags

Lucas Bersamin House of Representatives 2026 NEP 2026 budget
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