BATANGAS First District Representative Leandro Leviste has filed a resolution in the House of Representatives calling for a congressional investigation into the handling of ₱16.8 million in aid intended for 84 barangays in Batangas, which was publicly announced by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to be released last April 24.
The move comes after concerned barangay captains reported that despite complying with all requirements and following instructions, they were eventually excluded from receiving the assistance, with reasons given appearing inconsistent with earlier official statements.
According to accounts from the barangay officials, they had already submitted all necessary documents as early as April 17 and even went to the Provincial Capitol on April 22 to follow up on the release of the ₱200,000 allocation promised to each community.
However, they were later informed by Batangas Association of Barangay Captains (ABC) President Fernan Rocafort that they would not be included in the distribution, reportedly claiming it was because the Governor was “displeased” or had differences with them. The Office of the Provincial Governor also allegedly told them that the release schedule depended entirely on the Governor’s discretion. The officials clarified that they were never told by their respective Congressmen or Mayors not to participate; rather, it was the Provincial Governor’s Office and the Liga ng mga Barangay that informed them they were excluded from the April 24 activity.
These claims stand in contrast to previous statements made by Rocafort, Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, and Governor Vilma Santos-Recto, prompting concerns over what really transpired. The proponent of the resolution emphasized the importance of uncovering the truth to ensure that such incidents do not happen again, especially since the Bawat Bayan Makikinabang program is being implemented nationwide and is meant to serve as a direct form of assistance to communities regardless of political affiliations. The lawmaker also flagged instances where aid packages bearing the logos of both the Office of the Executive Secretary and the Provincial Government of Batangas were distributed during public events, raising suspicions that these activities may violate existing laws and policies against the use of government projects for political exposure or self-promotion.
To ensure that public assistance is distributed strictly in accordance with the law and without political bias, the resolution urges the Committee on Justice, the Committee on Public Accountability, or any appropriate panel of Congress to conduct a formal inquiry. The investigation aims to summon officials from concerned national and local agencies as well as representatives from the affected barangays to shed light on the matter. The proponent stressed that this step is necessary to protect ordinary citizens who are being deprived of much-needed aid due to political considerations, and to demonstrate that Congress is committed to prioritizing public welfare over the interests of politicians.
