President Marcos’ veto of P5 billion from DepEd’s Computerization Program has drawn significant backlash, compounding a prior P10 billion cut approved by Congress. The combined P15 billion reduction threatens the initiative aimed at equipping schools with essential digital tools, a critical need in an increasingly technology-driven education landscape.
Critics argue that the cut contradicts Marcos’ stated commitment to prioritizing education in the national budget. The vetoed funds were part of the unprogrammed appropriations, which Congress had already reduced, citing DepEd’s low utilization rates and procurement delays during Vice President Sara Duterte’s tenure as education secretary.
Unprogrammed appropriations and broader budget vetoes
Marcos vetoed a total of P168.241 billion in unprogrammed appropriations, including funds for priority social programs such as health care, social welfare, and education. Among the affected initiatives are P76.991 billion for programs like the Health Facilities Enhancement Program and the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), as well as P1 billion for the social pension for indigent senior citizens.
Unprogrammed funds, which can only be accessed if revenue targets are met, have long been criticized as a form of discretionary “pork barrel” spending. The executive defended the vetoes as necessary for maintaining fiscal responsibility while aligning expenditures with the administration’s priorities.
Infrastructure vs. education: A contentious allocation
While the education sector’s 2025 budget is set at P1.056 trillion, slightly exceeding the Department of Public Works and Highways’ (DPWH) P1.008 trillion allocation, critics claim this comparison is misleading. Civil society groups and finance experts note that the combined budgets of the DPWH and the Department of Transportation (DOTr), totaling approximately P1.132 trillion, surpass the education sector’s funding by P76 billion.
Critics like Rep. France Castro of the ACT Teachers’ Partylist have labeled the veto message “deceptive,” arguing that it masks significant pullbacks in the education budget. They assert that infrastructure spending still takes precedence, despite public rhetoric emphasizing education.
Challenges for DepEd and the future of digital learning
The P15 billion reduction to the Computerization Program has raised concerns about DepEd’s ability to fulfill its mandate of providing digital tools and resources to schools. The program, which aims to bridge the digital divide, has faced hurdles due to budget cuts and delays in procurement processes.
Education advocates warn that the cuts could have long-term repercussions for students, particularly in underserved areas where access to digital learning resources is already limited. They emphasize that technology is essential for modern education and critical for preparing students for a competitive global economy.
Public and expert reactions to the 2025 budget
The budget veto has elicited mixed reactions. Proponents argue that the cuts reflect the need for fiscal discipline and efficient allocation of resources. They highlight the administration’s efforts to address priority sectors while maintaining financial stability.
However, critics contend that the veto undermines essential programs and prioritizes infrastructure over education and social welfare. Advocacy groups have called for greater transparency in budget allocation and a stronger focus on long-term investments in human capital.
Striking a balance in fiscal priorities
The 2025 national budget underscores the complexities of balancing fiscal discipline with the need to invest in critical sectors like education and social welfare. While the administration defends its vetoes as necessary for aligning expenditures with priorities, the cuts have sparked broader discussions about the government’s commitment to addressing the nation’s most pressing needs.
As DepEd grapples with the impact of budget reductions, stakeholders emphasize the importance of supporting education as a cornerstone of national development. The coming year will test the administration’s ability to navigate these challenges and deliver on its promise of inclusive growth and progress.
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.