Robin seeks to ban senators, congressmen from local infra projects

A measure seeking to prohibit senators and members of the House of Representatives to intervene in the budgeting of local infrastructure projects, and even act as contractors or intermediaries, has been filed at the Senate. 

Senator Robin Padilla filed Senate Bill 1299 also known as the "Mahiya Naman Kayo Act" amid the investigations into the anomalous flood control projects, some of which are allegedly linked to legislators. 

Under the proposed measure, members of Congress shall not initiate, identify, endorse, insert, or otherwise influence the selection or inclusion of local infrastructure projects in the annual national budget, whether during or after budget preparation.

It also seeks to direct or suggest to any government agency or local government unit the implementation of specific infrastructure projects using national funds in the lawmakers' districts or constituencies. 

They are also barred from intervening in the procurement process, award of contracts, appointment of key personnel involved in procurement and infrastructure projects, or disbursement of public funds relating to local infrastructure projects. 

They are likewise prohibited from acting as contractors, suppliers, project implementers, or intermediaries for the same for local infrastructure projects.

Solons found violating such shall face censure or suspension by their respective chamber upon the recommendation of the ethics committee; administrative sanctions under applicable laws and regulations; and possible criminal prosecution.

"[M]embers of Congress have reportedly exerted influence over the identification and prioritization of infrastructure projects at the local level, often through informal channels or post-enactment budget insertions," Padilla said in the explanatory note. 

"This practice not only undermines the constitutional separation of powers but also fosters patronage, reduces the efficiency of public spending, and increases the risk of corruption," he added. 

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. earlier issued an executive order creating the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), which is tasked to investigate and undertake appropriate measures against those involved in irregularities in government infrastructure projects. — VDV, GMA Integrated News