PRESIDENT Benigno S. Aquino III has called for the abolition of the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) amid allegations of misuse of some P10 billion public funds.
In his statement in Malacanang on Friday, the Chief Executive directed Budget Secretary Florencio Abad to consult with Senate President Franklin Drilon and House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. regarding the removal of the PDAF and the crafting of a new system.
“Inatasan ko na si Secretary Abad ng DBM na kumonsulta kina Speaker Belmonte at Senate President Drilon upang pandayin ang mekanismo, at isumite ito kaagad sa akin. Ilalatag natin ito upang ang mga alokasyon sa bawat distrito ay mapabilang na sa ating Pambansang Budget simula sa panukalang budget ng 2014,” the President said.
Established in 1990, the PDAF was intended to bring development to every part of the country by making sure that every congressman will have an assured allocation for his district even if he is a member of the silent committee in Congress.
The President wants a new system to ensure that public funds are appropriately used.
He assured the public that charges will be filed against those involved in the P10-billion pork barrel scam.
The President expressed his confidence and trust in the integrity of Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales, Justice Secretary Leila M. de Lima, and COA chairperson Grace Pulido-Tan.
He, likewise, vowed to implement budgetary reforms to rid corruption.
The President is calling on the public to help the government scrutinize government projects to prevent corruption. (PCOO)