Manila:Malacañang announced that the proposed PHP4-billion public works allocation for Ilocos Norte 1st District Representative and House Majority Leader Sandro Marcos is still subject to review. The palace emphasized that all congressional projects must undergo thorough scrutiny before approval.

According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. would not permit public funds to be allocated to projects that lack clear details or public benefit. She reiterated that the President's directive since 2025 has been to ensure that public funds are utilized for the benefit of the people, avoiding expenditure on meaningless or useless projects.

Castro's comments were in response to House Deputy Minority Leader and Caloocan City 2nd District Representative Edgar Erice, who criticized the proposed infrastructure allocation for Marcos' district as excessively callous. Castro clarified that the proposed PHP4.4 billion in additional infrastructure funding remains part of the House of Representatives' version of the proposed 2027 national budget and is still under deliberation.

Furthermore, Castro explained that just because a project is proposed does not guarantee the release of funds. The Senate is expected to prepare its own version of the budget, and any differences will be reconciled through a bicameral conference committee before the final spending bill is presented to the President.

Castro also addressed the allegations of negligence or callousness, stating that such claims should be supported by clear evidence of fund misuse. She warned against premature statements that could influence public perception and assured the public that the President would carefully review the proposed budget, ensuring that only well-documented projects receive approval.

Finally, Castro encouraged citizens and watchdog groups to report any questionable projects, assuring them that the President would heed legitimate concerns.