Nearly 70 members of the House of Representatives allegedly acted as contractors for their own government-funded infrastructure projects in 2022, according to former Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson. Based on details he obtained, Lacson said around 67 lawmakers were reportedly involved in handling construction projects that they themselves had funded through public money.
The arrangement, he explained, raises concerns of conflict of interest, especially in cases where lawmakers or their relatives control the construction companies involved. This setup, while unofficial, may have allowed them to cut costs or maintain control over project execution, blurring the line between legislator and contractor.
Lacson pointed out that while this kind of practice is difficult to monitor, it is not impossible, particularly in areas where project implementation is less transparent. The situation adds to long-standing concerns about misuse of infrastructure funds and potential corruption in project awarding.
He also acknowledged the recent directive from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to intensify the fight against corruption, describing it as a positive move. However, he stressed the need for concrete follow-through, suggesting that strong words must be matched with decisive action if the government aims to address the issue meaningfully.
No names of lawmakers were released, and it remains unclear whether formal investigations have been initiated. The issue has renewed calls for transparency and oversight in public infrastructure spending, particularly after previous controversies linked to pork barrel practices declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court.
