Manila: Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano on Wednesday expressed support for the Department of Public Works and Highways’ (DPWH) initiative to align construction material prices with market rates. He emphasized that the anticipated PHP60 billion savings should be redirected to essential government services that directly benefit the populace.

According to Philippines News Agency, Cayetano suggested that these funds could be allocated to strengthen education, health, and social aid sectors, which require additional resources to enhance existing programs. He highlighted that addressing the issue of child stunting at an early stage offers the “best return on investment” by preventing more significant issues for the government in the future.

Cayetano noted the long-term impact of child stunting, warning that many of these children could become future persons with disabilities (PWDs). “Marami sa stunted na bata ang magiging future persons with disability (Many of the stunted children will become PWDs). The more that we take care of the stunting now, the less we have to spend on the interventions later on,” he stated.

He also pointed out that the savings could be used to tackle classroom shortages that result in double and triple shifting in numerous public schools through coordinated construction efforts. Furthermore, he reiterated the need for stronger financial aid programs, advocating that government savings should assist families grappling with rising prices and ongoing inflation.

Cayetano commended the DPWH’s effort to reduce material costs, stating it is a positive move towards more responsible spending. However, he stressed that the real challenge lies in ensuring the savings benefit sectors that have historically suffered from budget constraints. “True reform in public spending is not only about saving money but also about making sure government funds uplift lives and serve their intended purpose,” he concluded.