MANILA, Philippines — Congressman Leandro Legarda Leviste has ignited public debate after revealing that the proposed Farm-to-Market Road (FMR) budget was doubled from ₱16.4 billion to ₱32.6 billion during Senate deliberations.
(ads1)
In a social media post dated December 13, 2025, the lawmaker warned that the massive increase resembles long-standing issues tied to flood control projects—programs frequently criticized for alleged corruption, bloated costs, and weak oversight.
“Alam kong kasing-korap ito ng flood control dahil inalok ako noon ni Cong. Gardiola ng FMR. Ang FMR budget ay ibinebenta sa mga contractor.”
Alleged Manipulation of Public Funds
According to Congressman Leviste, Farm-to-Market Road projects—originally designed to support farmers and improve rural connectivity—have become vulnerable to political bargaining and contractor-driven schemes.
He claimed that FMR allocations are allegedly being offered or “sold” to contractors, raising serious questions about how infrastructure funds are negotiated and whether public interest is being sidelined.
Public Reaction and Online Backlash
The post quickly went viral, drawing thousands of reactions and hundreds of comments from Filipinos expressing anger and frustration. Many compared the issue to flood control projects that continue to fail despite receiving billions in funding.
(ads2)
Several netizens called for congressional investigations, stronger Ombudsman oversight, and greater transparency in how infrastructure budgets are approved and implemented.
Renewed Calls for Transparency
While no formal investigation has been announced following the congressman’s statement, the controversy highlights persistent concerns surrounding infrastructure spending in the Philippines.
As budget deliberations continue, critics argue that independent audits, public disclosure of project allocations, and strict accountability measures are essential to ensure Farm-to-Market Roads genuinely benefit farmers rather than contractors or political insiders.
For many Filipinos, Congressman Leviste’s warning serves as another reminder that unchecked budget increases often come at the expense of transparency and public trust.
