Manila: Cabinet officials will not be exempt from anti-graft investigations if evidence ties them to alleged budget irregularities, Malaca±ang emphasized, underscoring that accountability is a standard for all public officials, regardless of their rank.

According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer and Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro made this statement in response to accusations that several Cabinet members were implicated in billions of pesos worth of alleged budget insertions for 2025. These allegations were initially raised by Senator Panfilo Lacson, based on the so-called 'Cabral files.'

Castro conveyed that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. remains resolute in ensuring that anyone proven to be involved in any misconduct will face accountability. "Anyone among the Cabinet members who may be involved and for whom there is evidence should continue to be investigated to identify the real culprit," Castro stated in a message to reporters.

She further clarified that the President will not protect anyone found guilty of involvement. "The President has said that whoever it may be must be held accountable if they are truly involved," Castro added.

However, Castro highlighted that the investigation is currently under the authority of rightful bodies such as the Office of the Ombudsman and the Department of Justice (DOJ). She also encouraged individuals with evidence to formally present it to the Independent Commission for Infrastructure, Ombudsman, or DOJ.

Senator Lacson previously claimed that at least five Cabinet officials had allocations worth billions of pesos in the proposed 2025 national budget.