Senators have questioned the fund allocation for the Department of Health (DOH) and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) now that the country is facing a health crisis.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian questioned during the budget deliberation for the 2021 appropriations the 53 percent budget cut in the DSWD even if its funds are used to assist the vulnerable sector.
The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) explained that the 2021 budget of the DSWD amounting to Php 171 billion is greater than its original budget of Php 164 billion.
Senator Grace Poe also raised concern on the budget allocation for the flood control project of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) amounting to Php 150 billion which is higher than the allotted fund for the DOH.
DBM Secretary Wendel Avisado elucidated that the government is following a process when it comes to budgeting and the Congress has authority to amend it if needed.
– Report from Eunice Samonte
