Special Assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo Jr. has rejected online claims linking the Office of the Special Assistant to the President (OSAP) to alleged Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) budget documents, stressing that his office has no authority over line-item allocations or infrastructure projects.

Lagdameo said this amid online posts attempting to connect a purported “OP (ES/SAP)” tag in alleged DPWH documents to the OSAP or its officials.

In a statement on Thursday, Jan. 1, Lagdameo said the OSAP is not an implementing agency and “has no technical mandate to identify infrastructure projects, nor does it exercise line-item authority over the DPWH’s internal budget listings.”

He added that any insinuation that the OSAP controls, influences, or endorses DPWH budget items is “unfounded, false, and misleading.”

According to Lagdameo, his office plays no role in planning, selecting, prioritizing, or implementing infrastructure projects under the DPWH.

He likewise noted of recurring attempts to invoke the name of the Special Assistant to the President or the OSAP to suggest influence or involvement “where none exists.”

“The continued misuse of the SAP’s name or office—whether to suggest influence, involvement, or endorsement—is improper, irresponsible, and must stop,” he said.

While underscoring the importance of accountability, Lagdameo cautioned against reckless accusations driven by unverified or misinterpreted information.

“Overeagerness to exact accountability cannot justify recklessness,” he said, adding that the pursuit of justice must remain grounded in facts and due process.

The Palace official warned that the circulation of false claims does not advance accountability but instead diverts attention from genuine issues and delays their proper resolution through the appropriate institutions.

Lagdameo reiterated that the OSAP remains committed to transparency and accountability and fully supports agencies and officials conducting legitimate investigations in accordance with the law.

He added that the Office is prepared to cooperate with any inquiry conducted in the proper forum, provided it is evidence-based and guided by constitutional principles of due process.

“Until then, the OSAP will continue to discharge its duties in accordance with its mandate and will not be distracted by speculation,” Lagdameo said.