DBM tightens scrutiny of infrastructure projects for 2027 budget

MANILA — The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has adopted more rigorous evaluation standards for infrastructure projects earmarked in the government's proposed 2027 budget, officials said Thursday. The commitment to enhanced scrutiny was highlighted during Senate hearings on the DBM's own budget proposal, where lawmakers raised questions about project assessment protocols. Senate finance committee chair JV Ejercito queried Budget Secretary Kim Robert de on the mechanisms being employed to ensure more thorough evaluation of infrastructure initiatives. The DBM's move reflects broader efforts to improve budget management and ensure taxpayer funds are allocated to viable, well-planned projects. Officials did not provide specific details about the enhanced vetting process, though the assurance suggests the agency is responding to concerns about infrastructure project quality and implementation timelines in previous budget cycles. The stricter approach is expected to apply across national government agencies proposing infrastructure components for the 2027 national expenditure program.