Palace Calls for Thorough Review of 2026 National Expenditure Program
Malacañang has urged all government agencies to carefully examine their budgets under the 2026 National Expenditure Program for any irregular or improper insertions. Officials reported that this call follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and the newly appointed Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon to conduct a sweeping review of the Department of Public Works and Highways’ (DPWH) proposed budget for next year.
“It’s also better if the other agencies review what they have reported, because there might be something inserted in their proposal that should not have been inserted,” Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said during a briefing. She emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in the budget process.
House Leaders Flag Budget Anomalies
Community members noted that House party leaders recently recommended sending back the 2026 National Expenditure Program to the DBM due to numerous allocation issues. Castro welcomed the scrutiny, stating, “It is also good that this was noticed so that the budget can be fixed right from the start. And we also respect the leadership of the House of Representatives, and whatever happens here should only be in accordance with the Constitution.”
However, she clarified that legally the NEP cannot be returned to the DBM. Any corrections must be submitted through errata, ensuring the process follows proper legal channels.
Allegations of Irregularities Demand Evidence
Meanwhile, a Palace official remarked that the allegations raised by House Deputy Speaker Ronaldo Puno regarding irregularities in the budgets of the Department of Agriculture, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Philippine National Police, and Department of Health require thorough review and must be supported by concrete evidence before Malacañang issues any official comments.
Presidential Order for DPWH Budget Review
On Wednesday, President Marcos Jr. ordered a sweeping review of the DPWH’s proposed budget to ensure transparency, accountability, and the proper use of public funds. The President stressed the need to direct resources toward infrastructure projects that genuinely serve and benefit the Filipino people.
This review was prompted by Puno’s allegations that the 2026 National Expenditure Program contains allocations for projects already completed, as well as reports of “ghost projects” in Bulacan and other regions, which community members have brought to light.
Ensuring Proper Use of Public Funds
Local leaders observed that the government’s focus remains on safeguarding taxpayers’ money by scrutinizing every budget proposal carefully. The call for a thorough review of the 2026 National Expenditure Program highlights the administration’s commitment to eliminating wasteful spending and promoting good governance.
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