Malacañang pledged on Monday that the implementation of the 2025 national budget will be carried out with strict oversight and transparency, in full compliance with good governance principles and legal standards.
The Palace issued the statement following concerns raised by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) about financial assistance programs, which they argued promote corruption and patronage politics, especially as the midterm elections approach.
In a statement, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin mentioned that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. directly vetoed the "largest amount of appropriations in history."
He further emphasized that no previous president had ever undertaken such a thorough and extensive removal of unnecessary items from the budget as Marcos has done.
"He later directed, within the powers vested in him, the rechanneling of billions in funds to projects and programs that create social good, spur progress, and serve the welfare of the people," Bersamin explained.
Moreover, Bersamin stated that stricter conditions have been put in place for budget releases, ensuring alignment with national priorities and safeguarding against partisan interests.
"Having undergone adjustments permitted by law, the funds will be released transparently and in accordance with good governance principles and laws," said Bersamin.
"All of this stems from the recognition that financing the budget is shouldered by the people; therefore, its implementation must honor the sacrifices they have made," he added.
On December 30, Marcos formally signed the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA), vetoing PHP 194 billion worth of line items.
