Former Senate President Franklin Drilon is urging President Marcos to classify Congress-introduced amendments in the 2025 budget as “for later release” (FLR). This classification would delay fund allocation until after the midterm elections, ensuring compliance with the Omnibus Election Code and preventing misuse of public funds.
Drilon has criticized the 2025 GAA, labeling it an “election-year budget” susceptible to abuse. He particularly highlighted significant congressional insertions in the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), which he claimed still harbors substantial “pork barrel” funds. According to Drilon, the President’s veto of P168 billion in Unprogrammed Fund allocations is largely cosmetic, as these projects lack programmed revenues.
Congressional amendments under scrutiny
Despite vetoing P26 billion in DPWH projects, Drilon noted that over P347 billion in congressional insertions remain in the budget. Critics argue these allocations are excessive and could divert funds from critical programs like the P74.4-billion subsidy for PhilHealth and the P50 billion allocated for the 4Ps poverty alleviation initiative.
Drilon advocates for stricter oversight through the FLR mechanism, a strategy employed by the Department of Budget and Management in previous administrations. Under this system, amendments introduced by Congress are subjected to conditions before funds are released, ensuring accountability.
Agriculture funding boosted by external aid
While debates over the budget continue, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. announced that funding for the Department of Agriculture (DA) would be augmented by Official Development Assistance (ODA). With a 2025 allocation of P237.4 billion, the DA plans to implement various initiatives, including solar irrigation systems and adjustments to planting calendars.
The DA also secured a P200 million allocation through Landbank and the Development Bank of the Philippines to finance the Agri-Puhunan Program. This initiative aims to provide financial support to 100,000 farmers, helping stabilize production and reduce the impact of typhoons on agricultural outputs.
Rural electrification program gains momentum
The 2025 budget allocates P1.87 billion to the National Electrification Administration (NEA), funding initiatives to connect 22,000 rural households to the power grid. This program is part of a larger effort to achieve 100% electrification by 2027, a critical milestone for improving economic opportunities in remote areas.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian expressed optimism about the program’s progress. Electrification rates rose from 89% in 2023 to 91% in 2024, with projections to reach 94% by 2025. Gatchalian emphasized the importance of electricity in fostering local businesses and creating jobs, particularly in underserved communities.
Balancing budget priorities and election safeguards
As the debate over the 2025 GAA unfolds, balancing fiscal responsibility and election safeguards remains a contentious issue. Critics argue that delaying fund releases could prevent misuse, while proponents of immediate allocations stress the importance of funding critical programs.
For President Marcos, navigating this complex landscape will require balancing public demands for transparency with the need to implement key projects. The outcome of these debates will shape public trust in government spending and the integrity of the upcoming elections.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.