The Philippines’ total debt could climb to ₱19 trillion by the end of 2026, according to official budget data.
The Budget and Expenditures and Sources of Financing report for fiscal year 2026 projects the country’s outstanding debt to reach ₱19.057 trillion. This would exceed the projected ₱17.359 trillion debt level for 2025.
As of June 2025, the nation’s running debt stock stood at ₱17.26 trillion, already surpassing the ₱17 trillion mark. This figure represented a 2.1% increase from May’s ₱16.918 trillion.
The rising debt comes amid concerns over the sustainability of government borrowing and its impact on economic stability. The report did not detail specific measures to slow the debt growth but indicated a continued upward trend over the next year.
In his latest “BBM Podcast,” President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. assured the public that his administration is working to gradually reduce the country’s debt. He did not provide a specific timeline but emphasized that the government remains committed to fiscal management while pursuing economic development programs.
The projections highlight the challenge of balancing infrastructure spending, social services, and debt servicing amid global economic uncertainties.
The Department of Budget and Management has yet to release further details on strategies to address the anticipated debt increase in 2026.
