MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine government is racing against time to finalize the 2025 national budget, but officials clarified there is no plan to reenact the 2024 budget, even as the review process continues.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his team of economic managers are carefully examining the 2025 General Appropriations Bill (GAB). According to Malacañang, the President only received the printed copy of the proposed spending measure late last Friday, December 20. This delay came on the very day the President was initially scheduled to approve and enact the budget.
Acting Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Cesar Chavez informed reporters via text message that the President is taking extra time to scrutinize the spending plan. The delay stems from what Marcos described as “many changes” made to the funding requests of different government departments.
Despite these adjustments, the administration remains committed to ensuring the approval of the 2025 national budget before the year ends. Chavez emphasized, “The President hopes to act on the measure before the year ends.”
This careful review underscores the administration’s dedication to addressing the nation’s needs through a well-planned and balanced budget. However, it also puts additional pressure on government officials to complete the review and signing process in the final days of the year.
The General Appropriations Bill serves as the blueprint for the country’s public spending in 2025, allocating resources for infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other essential services. With the clock ticking, all eyes are on the administration to ensure the timely implementation of this critical measure.