Published: November 18, 2025 • Manila, Philippines
The Makabayan bloc is calling for a comprehensive investigation into resigned Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin and Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman in connection with the alleged budget insertion controversy, following revelations made by former Ako Bicol Representative Zaldy Co.
Lawmakers stressed that the resignation of the two Cabinet officials is not enough, asserting that they must still face legal scrutiny and be held accountable should evidence warrant it.
According to the bloc, the probe should also include several other government officials linked to the matter, namely Presidential Legislative Liaison Office Undersecretary Adrian Bersamin, DepEd Undersecretary Trygve Olaivar, and DOJ Undersecretary Jose Cadiz Jr.
Makabayan further insisted that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. himself must be included in the investigation, emphasizing that the executive secretary is considered the President’s “alter ego,” making the alleged directives a matter of significant public interest.
Earlier, the President accepted the resignations of Bersamin and Pangandaman, calling their move an act of delicadeza amid ongoing inquiries into alleged irregularities in flood control projects. Finance Secretary Ralph Recto has since been appointed as the new Executive Secretary, while Budget Undersecretary Rolando Toledo has been named Officer-in-Charge of the Department of Budget and Management.
The controversy erupted after Co released a video statement alleging that President Marcos Jr. ordered the insertion of ₱100 billion into the 2025 national budget, claiming that kickbacks were also involved.
As pressure builds, the House minority vows to push for a transparent, independent, and thorough investigation to restore public trust in the national budgeting process.