MANILA, (PIA) — Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman on Monday announced that the education sector will receive the largest allocation from the P6.326 trillion national budget next year, with P1.053 trillion earmarked, while the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) follows closely with P1.034 trillion.
Pangandaman made these remarks during a media briefing, organized by the Presidential Communications Office, following the ceremonial signing by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. of the budget at the Malacañan Palace in Manila.
“The President ensured that the budget remained true to our constitutional mandate,” the budget chief said, expressing gratitude and relief that the government did not revert to a reenacted budget.
Pangandaman was one of the key Cabinet officials who collaborated with Marcos Jr. to thoroughly review the budget.
The budget chief also emphasized the need for clear guidelines before releasing funds under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AKAP) program, stating it is crucial to ensure assistance reaches those in need and to avoid duplication.
She highlighted that unprogrammed appropriations had been significantly reduced through direct veto, including the P26 billion worth of projects under the DPWH and P168 billion in unprogrammed appropriations.
For his part, Finance Secretary Ralph Recto revealed that the government plans to spend approximately P17.3 billion per day in 2025 and expressed confidence in exceeding revenue targets.
While, National Economic and Development Authority Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said that the 2025 budget prioritizes strategic investments and social services, with substantial allocations for health, education, and infrastructure.
He assured that planned spending will remain within the deficit ceiling and emphasized the government’s commitment to sustaining gains and accelerating efforts to meet development targets.
Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan affirmed their readiness to tackle any challenges ahead, pledging to advance infrastructure projects that will improve the quality of life for Filipinos.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin expressed confidence that the budget will withstand potential legal challenges, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to effective governance and fiscal responsibility. (JCO/PIA-NCR)
(Photo courtesy: RTVM)
