Manila: Malaca±ang on Monday denied Caloocan Rep. Edgar Erice's claim that Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon had threatened to give him zero allocation over his criticisms of the administration. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said Dizon personally denied having spoken with Erice about the alleged threat.

According to Philippines News Agency, Castro stated during a Palace briefing, "Pinasinungalingan mismo ni Secretary Vince Dizon dahil hindi po niya nakakausap si Congressman Erice patungkol sa kaniyang pagbibintang (Secretary Vince Dizon himself denied it, saying that he had not spoken with Congressman Erice regarding his allegations)." She emphasized that the administration does not fear criticism and remains open to legitimate public concerns.

"Hindi natatakot ang gobyernong ito sa anumang pagbabatikos (This government is not afraid of any criticism)," Castro asserted. However, she stressed that criticism should be based on facts and evidence, particularly when allegations involve government officials and alleged irregularities.

Castro rejected Erice's explanation that he was merely echoing public sentiment when making claims about alleged irregularities in government projects. She highlighted the responsibility of a lawmaker to substantiate claims rather than merely repeat unverified statements.

"Hindi siya puwedeng i-parrot lamang kung ano ang sinasabi ng ibang mga tao na walang basehan (He cannot simply parrot what other people are saying without any basis)," Castro remarked. The Palace has challenged Erice to present evidence to support his allegations, including his statements concerning alleged corruption and political protection in the flood-control controversy.

Castro maintained that the administration's response is grounded in available evidence and not political retaliation.