Barangay Officials Have 'Pork Barrel,' Ombudsman Says; System Rethink Urged

Ombudsman Boying Remulla has stated that all barangay officials, including SK councilors, have access to their own 'pork barrel,' particularly in wealthier areas. He urged a reconsideration of the barangay system, citing that these officials serve as frontline government personnel. "All of them have a pork barrel, even down to SK councilors," Remulla said on his radio program. He added, "They have their own pork barrel, especially in wealthy cities and municipalities." Remulla's remarks came as the Senate recently approved a measure to extend the terms of barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials from four to five years. Senator Francis 'Chiz' Escudero, the bill's principal author, argued that the extended term would allow officials more time to implement programs, noting that barangays are "planners, implementers, first responders, peacekeepers, and frontline service providers." During the program, Remulla questioned Senator JV Ejercito about the current qualifications for barangay officials. Ejercito stated that requirements, including the ability to read and write, remained unchanged under the proposed bill. Remulla then suggested that all barangay officials, including barangay captains, should be required to possess civil service eligibility. The Ombudsman's comments highlight a potential issue of fund allocation and accountability within the local governance structure, prompting calls for a review of the system.