Cebu lawmakers’ P55.77B public works fund allocations exposed in COA report

Billions in public works funds flowed through Cebu’s districts—but who got the most, and why? The COA’s findings uncover a system under scrutiny.

, and Administrator

2025 December 2 . 1:19 PM

1 min read

In this picture, there are cabinets at the bottom. On the cabinets, there are statues. On the top,... — In this picture, there are cabinets at the bottom. On the cabinets, there are statues. On the top, there is a window, stairs and a banner.

Cebu lawmakers’ P55.77B public works fund allocations exposed in COA report

A recent report by the Commission on Audit (COA) Philippines has revealed how Cebu’s congressional representatives allocated their Discretionary Public Works Funds between 2023 and 2025. The funds, totalling P55.77 billion for 11 incumbent lawmakers, were distributed through the Department of Public Works and Highways’ (DPWH) 'allocable' system—a method critics compare to the controversial pork barrel scheme.

The allocations were determined using the 'BBM Parametric Formula,' named after President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. Under this system, Cebu’s districts received varying amounts, with the highest going to Rhea Mae Gullas of the 1st District at P8.33 billion. Vincent Franco 'Duke' Frasco of the 5th District followed with P6.63 billion, while PJ Garcia of the 3rd District secured P6.05 billion.

The report sheds light on the scale of discretionary funding in Cebu, with allocations ranging from P2.61 billion to P8.33 billion per district. The 'allocable' system continues to shape infrastructure spending, with the DPWH overseeing distribution based on the BBM Parametric Formula. The findings provide a clear breakdown of how public funds are assigned to local representatives.