Senator Joel Villanueva’s province was reportedly the biggest beneficiary of Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero’s insertions in the P6.352 trillion national budget for 2025.
According to reports, Villanueva’s province of Bulacan received an allocation of P12.08 billion for infrastructure, higher than the P9.1 billion allocated to Escudero’s home province of Sorsogon. These insertions resemble the pork barrel funds previously allocated to lawmakers.
The P12 billion allocation for Bulacan was reportedly divided into P2.93 billion for flood control, P3.26 billion for road construction, P3.61 billion for bridges and buildings, and P2.28 billion for street lighting, water impounding, and pumping stations.
A closer examination of Escudero’s insertions revealed a pattern of “budget layering,” a tactic where similar or repetitive projects are listed under different entries to inflate the total allocation for a specific area.
Most of the items were centered in the towns of San Miguel and San Rafael, with different project names but each carrying a P100 million price tag.
Although Escudero was the main sponsor of these insertions, some allocations were also listed “on behalf of Senator Bong Go.” In Bulacan, there was a P3 million allocation for the Angat Super Health Center and P5 million for the purchase of motor vehicles in the municipalities of Angat and Paombong.
The alliance between Escudero and Villanueva was reportedly formed after Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri was ousted from the Senate presidency in May 2024.
A source suggested that the promise of substantial insertions may be the reason Villanueva is now supporting Escudero.
As a result, Villanueva is set to be reinstated as Senate majority leader when the Senate session opens on July 28, a position he previously held under Zubiri’s leadership.
Speculation is also growing that Villanueva may run for governor of Bulacan as his term ends in 2028.
When asked for comment on the alleged P12 billion insertion for Bulacan, Villanueva stated, “Hope it’s true, but our Bulacan district engineers say it’s not. I’m sure the DBM and DPWH would be the right agencies to answer these questions. I’ll raise it in the upcoming budget hearings.”
Escudero’s insertions in the 2025 national budget reportedly reached P142.7 billion.
Aside from Bulacan and Sorsogon, Mindoro received P8.37 billion, Batangas – P7.32 billion, Davao – P7.2 billion, Misamis Occidental – P6.5 billion, Quezon – P5.9 billion, Cavite – P5.6 billion, Valenzuela City – P4.251 billion, and Cebu – P4 billion.
Out of the total insertion amount, P17 billion was reportedly allocated for flood control projects.
Bulacan
Bulacan is a province in the Philippines known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It played a significant role in the country’s fight for independence, being a center of revolutionary activity against Spanish colonial rule. Today, it is famous for its historical landmarks, such as the Barasoain Church, and vibrant festivals like the *Singkaban*.
Sorsogon
Sorsogon is a province in the Bicol Region of the Philippines, known for its stunning natural attractions, including Bulusan Volcano and the whale shark interactions in Donsol. Historically, it was a significant trading hub during the Spanish colonial era and played a role in the country’s resistance against colonial rule. Today, it is celebrated for its rich culture, warm hospitality, and ecotourism opportunities.
Angat Super Health Center
The **Angat Super Health Center** is a modern healthcare facility located in Angat, Bulacan, Philippines, designed to provide comprehensive medical services to the community. Established under the government’s initiative to improve healthcare access, it offers primary care, diagnostics, and emergency services, enhancing public health in the region. The center reflects the Philippines’ efforts to upgrade health infrastructure and ensure affordable, quality care for local residents.
San Miguel
San Miguel de Allende is a historic city in central Mexico, renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, vibrant arts scene, and cultural significance. Founded in 1542 as a Spanish military outpost, it later became a key site during the Mexican War of Independence. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its baroque churches, cobblestone streets, and thriving expatriate community.
San Rafael
San Rafael is a city in Marin County, California, known for its scenic beauty, historic landmarks, and vibrant downtown. Founded in 1874, it was named after Saint Raphael the Archangel and became the county seat due to its central location. The city features cultural sites like the Mission San Rafael Arcángel, established in 1817 as a medical asistencia (sub-mission) of Mission Dolores, though the original structures no longer remain. Today, it blends historic charm with modern amenities.
Mindoro
Mindoro is the seventh-largest island in the Philippines, known for its rich biodiversity, stunning beaches, and the indigenous Mangyan people. The island has a diverse history, influenced by Spanish colonization, which introduced Christianity, and later by American and Japanese occupations during World War II. Today, Mindoro is a popular destination for ecotourism, offering attractions like Puerto Galera’s coral reefs and Mount Halcon’s challenging hikes.
Batangas
Batangas is a province in the Philippines known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and scenic landscapes, including beaches and the famous Taal Volcano. It played a significant role during the Spanish colonial era and the Philippine Revolution, with heritage sites like the Taal Basilica and the Balayan Church. The province is also celebrated for its traditional cuisine, particularly *bulalo* (beef bone marrow stew) and *kapeng barako* (strong local coffee).
Davao
Davao is a bustling city in the southern Philippines, known as the economic hub of Mindanao. It has a rich history influenced by indigenous tribes, Spanish colonization, and later American rule. Today, Davao is famous for attractions like Mount Apo, the country’s highest peak, and its vibrant cultural festivals, such as Kadayawan.
