Politics · Philippines Bureau
DA traces flawed farm road data to executive spending blueprint
The Department of Agriculture has clarified that eight farm-to-market road projects flagged for faulty coordinates originated in the administration's initial budget proposal, not legislative amendments. The disclosure came during a congressional briefing as budget watchdogs continue scrutinizing infrastructure spending.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — Eight farm-to-market (FMR) road projects cited by budget monitoring groups for incorrect geographical data were sourced from the executive branch's National Expenditure Program rather than additions by the House of Representatives, according to the Department of Agriculture. Agriculture Assistant Secretary U-Nichols Manalo made the clarification during a congressional briefing on Wednesday, addressing concerns raised by fiscal watchdogs over the accuracy of project coordinates in the FMR road initiative. The distinction carries significance in determining accountability for the data errors, as it establishes that the problematic entries were present in the government's original spending framework. The department's statement comes amid broader scrutiny of infrastructure project documentation across various government agencies. Watchdog groups have emphasized the importance of accurate geographic data for proper project implementation and monitoring. The DA has not yet outlined specific corrective measures to address the coordinate inaccuracies in the affected road projects.