MANILA – Malacañang urged the House of Representatives to heed the public demand for full accountability over anomalous flood control projects, warning against attempts to shift blame to the Executive Branch amid deliberations on the proposed 2026 national budget.

In a statement, Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin criticized what he described as efforts by some lawmakers to deflect responsibility.

“The Cabinet strongly objects to the recent spins coming from certain members of the House of Representatives who are thereby attempting to shift the blame for their own corruption and failures onto the Executive Branch,” Bersamin said.

“The Members of the Cabinet will not tolerate any attack on the integrity and reputation of the Executive Branch, and any effort to hold the budget process hostage by political theatrics,” he added.

Bersamin called on the House to ensure accountability among its own members in connection with the investigation initiated by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. into questionable flood control and other infrastructure projects.

“All our investigations into the anomalies will be futile if the sources of corruption remain unchecked. Hence, we urge the House of Representatives to heed the demand of the people for full accountability: CLEAN YOUR HOUSE FIRST!” he said.

Malacañang said Marcos will issue an executive order creating an independent commission to investigate irregularities in flood control and other Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) projects. The commission will be tasked to continue the probe and recommend legal actions against those found liable.

The President also ordered a comprehensive review of the proposed DPWH budget under the 2026 National Expenditure Program to introduce changes ensuring transparency, accountability, and proper use of public funds.