DICT chief denies P6.5 billion budget insertion claims

DICT Secretary Henry Aguda denied allegations of a P6.5 billion budget insertion for his department, stating that the claims are unfounded and without basis.

Ako Bicol Representative Elizaldy Co had previously claimed that the DICT was set to receive P5 billion for its Free Public Internet Access Program (FPIAP) and an additional P1.5 billion for its e-Government Systems Development as part of alleged budget insertions.

Aguda stated that the DICT is operating within its submitted National Expenditure Program (NEP) and has no knowledge of such insertions, promising to investigate the claims.

He emphasized that the noise often comes from vested interests affected by reforms aimed at cleaning up the system.

Aguda assured that the DICT will continue to provide services to Filipinos and will not be affected by the accusations.