Big chunks

The Arroyo government will invest P147.5 billion ($3.15 billion) for infrastructure. Of this amount, P83.9 billion will be used to build and maintain roads and bridges.

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will receive P120 billion ($2.56 billion).

Critics, however, fear that the funds for infrastructure would be vulnerable to corruption. In many surveys, the DPWH is consistently perceived to be one of the most corrupt government agencies in the country.

Another controversial item in the proposed 2009 national budget is the allocation for confidential and intelligence expenses of different government offices amounting to P1.36 billion ($29.05 million).

The Office of the President will get the biggest intelligence fund worth P650 million ($13.88 million). The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) will get P270 million ($5.77 million) for the same purpose while the DND will receive P151.64 million ($3.24 million). These funds are not subject to government audit. (Bulatlat.com)

 Save as PDF