Manila: Senate President Francis Escudero has called for a ban on 'vanity projects' in the 2026 budget of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), highlighting concerns that these non-essential amenities often lead to waste and corruption.

According to Philippines News Agency, Escudero proposed that Malaca±ang should create a 'negative list' of projects that should be outright vetoed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. if included in the General Appropriations Act. He emphasized the need for zero budget allocation for projects that offer no substantial benefits, citing structures like waiting sheds, swimming pools, and signages as examples of budgetary misadventures that do little for community welfare.

Escudero stressed that implementing a negative list would send a clear message to lawmakers and agencies that the government will no longer support projects that do not address essential infrastructure needs. He called for the redirection of funds towards high-impact infrastructure, such as waste-to-energy plants and drainage improvements, to tackle flooding and environmental issues in urban areas.