SENATOR Panfilo “Ping” Lacson has raised serious concerns about potential conflicts of interest and corruption within the national budget process, alleging that at least 67 members of the House of Representatives in 2022 were involved in government-funded infrastructure projects as contractors, either directly or through relatives.
Lacson revealed this information during a DZRH interview, citing a private conversation with a fellow lawmaker at the beginning of the 19th Congress.
The lawmaker reportedly stated that 67 congressmen were engaged in construction contracting, giving them significant influence over the projects they were funding. Lacson suggested that the practice may be even more widespread than the reported number.
The Senator’s statement highlights a long-standing issue of potential abuse of power and corruption in the allocation and implementation of infrastructure projects.
The alleged involvement of a significant number of lawmakers as contractors raises concerns about transparency and accountability in the use of public funds.
The revelation is likely to fuel calls for greater scrutiny of the national budget and stricter regulations to prevent conflicts of interest. Lacson’s comments underscore the need for stronger mechanisms to ensure that government funds are used efficiently and ethically, and that infrastructure projects are awarded fairly and transparently. Further investigation is needed to determine the full extent of this alleged practice and to hold those responsible accountable.
