Malacañang assured the public that the 2026 national budget underwent a thorough and careful review.
This was emphasized by Executive Secretary Ralph Recto following the signing by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. of the ₱6.793-trillion General Appropriations Act (GAA) for the year.
According to Recto, the approved budget marks the beginning of a year with more orderly, fair, and responsible use of public funds.
In a press briefing, Recto said the budget went through extensive scrutiny, resulting in the veto of several items by the President. These include portions of unprogrammed funds, budgetary support for government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs), insurance for government assets, certain personnel services requirements, and public emergency benefits.
A total of ₱92.5 billion was vetoed from the ₱243 billion Unprogrammed Appropriations (UA).
Recto also clarified that politicians will not be allowed to take part in the disbursement of government assistance.
In closing, he stressed that the 2026 national budget is “pork barrel–free,” contrary to allegations that it contains “soft pork” or so-called “giniling pork.”
(PHOTO COURTESY: PCO)
