Senate President Francis Joseph “Chiz” G. Escudero has urged Malacañang to create a “negative list” of infrastructure projects that must not be funded in the 2026 national budget and should be vetoed outright by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. He said these projects waste government funds that should be used for essential programs.

Escudero explained that instead of waiting for questionable items to sneak into the budget, the Palace should take a proactive approach and clearly state at the outset which projects will not be allowed. “Babaha ng walang kwentang projects kung ‘di natin ididetalye kung anu-ano ang dapat ipagbawal. There should be zero budget for zero-benefit projects,” he stressed.

The lawmaker, who previously chaired the Senate finance committee, suggested including overpriced road devices like reflective studs or “cat’s eyes,” slope protection nets, and paints on the list. He also called for a ban on “vanity projects” such as waiting sheds, swimming pools, and decorative signages, which are prone to abuse and misuse of funds, to prioritize more vital infrastructure.

Escudero further proposed a moratorium on new flood control projects under the Department of Public Works and Highways for 2026, citing unspent billions from the 2025 budget. He said existing projects must first be completed and systems fixed before allocating new funds.

Escudero emphasized that the negative list should serve as a firm guide for both branches of government, warning that any projects violating it must be vetoed to end annual budget abuses..