MANILA, Philippines — Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Cherbett Castro on Thursday challenged Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong to present concrete evidence supporting his claim that the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA) was manipulated to serve as an “election fund.”

Magalong, in a recent interview, alleged that only a select few had deliberated on changes to the National Expenditure Program (NEP), resulting in a budget that could be used to influence electoral outcomes.

In response, Castro questioned whether Magalong would be willing to serve as a witness in legal proceedings regarding the matter.

“Ginagalang po natin ang pananaw ni Mayor Magalong, pero mas maganda po sana kung magsasalita po siya ay nandiyan na, nakahain na po ang mga ebidensiya na ito ay nagamit sa election fund,” she said.

She also noted that the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) had been consulted to verify the mayor’s claims, particularly regarding the alleged political control over financial aid distribution.

“Tinanong po natin, ang mga pulitiko lamang ba ang puwedeng mag-refer sa DSWD kung may nais tulungan? Ang sabi po nila, anybody, kahit sino ay puwedeng humingi ng tulong sa DSWD,” Castro saind, adding that financial aid does not necessarily come from political figures but directly from the agency itself.

The official cautioned against making broad accusations without substantiated proof, as it could tarnish the government’s reputation and unfairly implicate politicians who may not be involved in any irregularities.

Castro urged Magalong to formally submit his evidence, whether in ongoing cases related to the GAA or directly to the PCO for further investigation.

“Kung mayroon pong ebidensiya, magbigay na lang po siya ng ebidensiya doon para kung mayroon pong issue ay mas maliwanag, she said.

As of press time, Magalong has yet to provide additional details regarding his allegations.