Dizon vows reforms in DPWH infrastructure budgeting

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Public Works and Highways will introduce reforms to create a transparent and equitable system for allocating infrastructure funds as DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon has cited the need to simplify the “complex and confusing” budgeting process previously implemented that had been open to congressional “insertions.”

At a press briefing last Friday, Dizon said he directed Undersecretary for planning and public-private partnerships Nicasio Conti to review and revamp the current budget planning and allocation system, which even dubiously classifies funds into so-called allocable and non-allocable categories.

Dizon said his long-term goal is to make infrastructure planning straightforward and transparent – ensuring that projects are aligned with local development council priorities and regional development council endorsements.

He noted that the 2026 DPWH budget had already been submitted to Congress prior to his assumption of office.

“The only thing I managed to do was to remove all flood control allocations, make sure there were no duplicate or incomplete projects and ensure that everything included had proper plans, programs of work and the necessary local and regional approvals,” he added.