Business · Philippines Bureau
DOTr faces funding gap as most 2027 projects excluded from budget
The Department of Transportation revealed Thursday that despite a larger proposed budget allocation for 2027, most of its planned projects have not been included in the National Expenditure Program. The disclosure was made during a House committee on appropriations budget briefing.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — The Department of Transportation faces a significant funding shortfall for its 2027 infrastructure initiatives, with the agency disclosing that the majority of its proposed projects were excluded from the National Expenditure Program despite increased overall budget proposals.
During Thursday's House committee on appropriations budget briefing, DOTr officials revealed the funding mismatch between their project proposals and what was allocated under the NEP framework. The agency did not specify the total value of unfunded projects or provide details on which major infrastructure initiatives were left out of the budget allocation.
The development highlights ongoing challenges in funding the country's transportation modernization efforts, which have been a priority for successive administrations. The DOTr has previously pushed for increased funding to support critical projects aimed at improving connectivity and reducing travel times across the archipelago.
The committee briefing did not provide information on whether the agency plans to seek additional appropriations or resubmit proposals for the excluded projects. Transportation experts have stressed the need for sustained funding to implement the country's long-term infrastructure roadmap.