Senator Mark Villar has been appointed as the new chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, replacing Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, who advocated for greater transparency in the national budget process. The change comes as Villar faces allegations from former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo, who claimed that Villar received kickbacks from allegedly anomalous flood control projects during his tenure at the agency. As of now, Villar has not issued any statement regarding his election as finance chair.
Gatchalian Emphasizes Public Trust
Senator Gatchalian stressed that the finance chairmanship is a position of public trust and highlighted Villar's experience in various government and business roles, which provides him with a deep understanding of financial matters. During Gatchalian's leadership, he championed transparency, particularly in the bicameral conference committee of the General Appropriations Bill, which has long been criticized for being a secret forum where alleged 'horse-trading' of billions in public funds occurs.
Senate Reorganization
Alongside Villar's appointment, a major Senate reorganization took place on Monday. Several minority senators lost their committee chairmanships, including Senator Bam Aquino, who previously headed the Committee on Basic Education, now led by Senator Loren Legarda. Senator Risa Hontiveros, who chaired the Committee on Health, was replaced by Senator Bong Go.
