MANILA (October 25, 2025)— The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) revealed that the Philippine National Police (PNP) has returned ₱500 million in intelligence funds this year, following questions over a supposed budget insertion reportedly connected to an individual linked with the Department of Agriculture (DA).
During the Senate budget deliberations, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said the amount was returned after it was discovered that the insertion came from the same person who previously requested the importation of 3,000 containers of fish from the DA.
Remulla explained that the DILG refused to accept the funds, citing concerns about transparency and the possible implications of the insertion.
“There might be a trade with it. That’s why we refused the insertion of ₱500 million,” he stated.
Earlier, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. disclosed that Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Zaldy Co, chairperson of the House Committee on Appropriations, had allegedly pressured his department to issue fish import permits, sparking controversy over potential undue influence in government operations.
The revelation has intensified public scrutiny over the handling of intelligence funds and raised questions about possible links between budget insertions and private or political interests.
As of now, the DILG has assured that the returned intelligence funds will not be used until a full review is completed, emphasizing the department’s commitment to accountability and proper use of public money.