VP Sara Duterte Anticipates Budget Cuts for 2026
Vice President Sara Duterte has expressed her expectation that the House of Representatives will cut the Office of the Vice President’s (OVP) proposed 2026 budget of P903 million. This outlook follows a similar experience in 2025 when the House drastically reduced the OVP’s budget from P2.037 billion to just P733.198 million, sources reported.
During a chance interview in Davao City, Duterte noted, “It will be the same as last year. The administration hasn’t changed. We still have the same president and the same House Speaker, so we don’t expect anything more for the OVP.” Her statement reflects a cautious approach to budget expectations amid the current political climate.
Budget Proposal and Government Approval Process
Officials explained that the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) initially approved a P733 million budget for the OVP in 2026. Later, the DBM increased this amount by approximately P70 million after the OVP requested additional funds. Consequently, the proposed budget now stands at P903 million, as approved by the DBM.
Despite this increase, community members and local leaders expect the House of Representatives to reduce the budget once again. Duterte added, “So whatever the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) approved, that’s what we submitted and what was included in the National Expenditure Program. Of course, we expect it to be reduced when it reaches the House of Representatives.”
Political Context and Budget Implications
Observers noted that the unchanged administration and leadership in the House contribute to the anticipation of similar budget outcomes. The previous cut in 2025 set a precedent, making it unlikely that the OVP will receive a higher budget allocation for the coming year. This ongoing dynamic highlights the complexities of budget negotiations within the government.
As the budget process progresses, the OVP prepares to adjust its plans accordingly, mindful of the political realities that influence funding decisions. The proposed P903 million budget represents the office’s best estimate after negotiations with the DBM but remains subject to legislative scrutiny and potential reduction.
Looking Ahead
With the House of Representatives poised to review the OVP’s budget proposal, the final allocation could again fall short of the office’s initial requests. This situation underscores the challenges faced by government agencies in securing adequate funding amid shifting political priorities.
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