Senator Joseph Victor "JV" Ejercito has made a strong appeal for the government to maintain its infrastructure spending momentum, emphasizing its critical role in economic recovery and job creation despite a recent corruption scandal.
Sharp Decline in Infrastructure Investment
During a recent statement, Ejercito revealed alarming data from the Department of Budget and Management showing infrastructure spending dramatically decreased by 43 percent between the third quarters of 2024 and 2025. Expenditure fell from PHP137.1 billion to just PHP78.7 billion during the same period this year.
Economic Multiplier Effect and Catch-Up Plan
The senator highlighted the significant economic benefits of infrastructure projects, noting that every peso invested generates PHP2.4 to PHP3 in economic activity. He expressed support for the Department of Public Works and Highways' catch-up plan designed to accelerate construction from the last quarter of this year through early next year.
"Hopefully, makahabol tayo (we can catch up)," Ejercito stated. "From this time until January, we need to implement the catch-up plan para maka-recover tayo sa spending at magtuloy ang economic activity (so we can recover on spending and continue our economic activity)."
Safeguards and Project Realignment
While advocating for continued infrastructure rollout, Ejercito acknowledged the need for clearer safeguards following the flood control corruption controversy. He proposed realigning savings from flood control projects toward other high-impact infrastructure such as airports, seaports, and classrooms that deliver strong multiplier effects on the economy.
The senator also emphasized protecting legitimate contractors, stating they should be allowed to earn reasonable profit margins without interference from corrupt officials. His comments come as government officials recently inspected Baler Airport in Aurora province, underscoring the ongoing focus on infrastructure development.
