Manila: Senate President Win Gatchalian has voiced his support for reallocating infrastructure project funding from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) back to the Philippine National Police (PNP) to enhance accountability in project execution.

According to Philippines News Agency, the issue was highlighted during a Senate hearing on the proposed 2027 budget for the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). Gatchalian expressed concerns about PNP projects under the TIKAS program that were managed by the DPWH. He cited a report from the Commission on Audit (COA) indicating that approximately PHP8.9 billion, encompassing around 331 projects, remains unrecorded, lacks sufficient supporting documents, or is incomplete.

The matter had been previously discussed in last year's budget sessions, where it was revealed that coordination challenges between agencies had hampered projects aimed at enhancing police camps and facilities. Gatchalian proposed that allowing the PNP to handle its own infrastructure projects could facilitate better monitoring and accountability.

During the discussion, Gatchalian queried whether transferring project oversight to the PNP would be more effective or if it would be preferable to retain it with the DPWH. PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. reported that the police organization has started accounting for projects covered by TIKAS and other funds implemented through the DPWH. Nartatez acknowledged that while the PNP requested these projects, their execution was managed by the DPWH.

Gatchalian suggested the possibility of returning some project responsibilities to the PNP, contingent upon approval from the finance committee leadership. Nartatez affirmed that the PNP would be more proficient in implementing projects that directly support police operations.

The conversation took place as senators examined the funding requirements of the DILG and PNP for 2027, including infrastructure needs for police facilities nationwide. Gatchalian emphasized that the focus should be on ensuring not only the release of funds but also the proper documentation, completion, and utilization of projects intended to bolster police operations. The Senate finance panel is anticipated to deliberate on the proposed budget realignment before presenting it for plenary consideration.