Senator Sherwin Gatchalian has drawn attention to a significant increase in the proposed allocation for farm-to-market roads (FMRs) in the upcoming 2026 budget. According to Gatchalian, the budget line for FMRs has surged from around ₱16 billion to ₱32 billion, effectively doubling the planned funding.
During a Senate finance sub-committee hearing, Gatchalian pressed the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on whether the jump in funding aligns with the agency’s master plan. He noted that while about half of the additional budget is included in the agency’s network plan, the other half appears not to be.
The DPWH has responded that they are reviewing flagged entries and validating the projects. In the hearing, DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon stated that of the duplicate or questionable items identified, 798 out of 946 projects were validated. Yet Gatchalian has asked for more time to ensure the budget items are legitimate.
Gatchalian emphasized that simply increasing the budget is not enough — the underlying projects must be properly mapped, non-duplicated, and clearly aligned with the agency’s plan. He warned that until the DPWH can account for all entries, there remains a risk of waste, duplication or incomplete execution.
This move to boost FMR funding signals a heightened focus on improving rural infrastructure, which is vital for agriculture, livelihoods and connectivity in the Philippines.