President Calls for Swift Enactment of 2026 National Budget
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. urged Congress to swiftly enact the proposed P6.793-trillion national budget for 2026. Emphasizing the importance of timely approval, the President highlighted that the government remains on track with its Agenda for Prosperity and is preparing the country to take a leadership role in the Asia-Pacific region.
Officials reported that the proposed 2026 national budget focuses on strategic resource allocation to boost economic growth and national development. This budget aims to strengthen the Philippines’ position among neighboring nations by prioritizing key sectors.
Lower Allocation for Confidential and Intelligence Funds
Budget managers proposed a reduced allocation for confidential and intelligence funds (CIF) in the 2026 National Expenditure Program. Sources noted that the Department of Budget and Management recommended a total CIF of P10.7 billion, which is 11 percent lower than the previous year’s P12.1 billion.
Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman explained that these funds, traditionally reserved for national security, will now be carefully distributed only to appropriate agencies. This approach reflects efforts to ensure transparency and efficient use of government resources.
Chinese Fighter Jet Encounters Philippine Coast Guard Aircraft
During a maritime domain awareness flight over Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal), a Chinese fighter jet dangerously tailed a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) aircraft. Community members reported that the PCG’s Cessna Caravan was intercepted by a People’s Liberation Army Navy Air Force J-15 fighter jet, flying approximately 200 feet above the waters near Scarborough Shoal.
Commodore Jay Tarriela, spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, described the incident as a close encounter that raised concerns about regional maritime security. This event underscores ongoing tensions in the disputed area.
US Warships Deployed Near Panatag Shoal Following Collision
Two United States warships were deployed off Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal recently after a collision involving Chinese vessels. Local leaders confirmed that the USS Higgins (DDG-76) and USS Cincinnati (LCS-20) are maintaining a presence about 30 nautical miles from Panatag Shoal.
The deployment signals heightened vigilance amid escalating maritime disputes in the West Philippine Sea, according to security analysts.
Discounted Beep Cards for MRT and LRT to Launch by September
Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon announced plans to issue discounted Beep Cards for students, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and senior citizens by September. These cards will be available across Metro Rail Transit (MRT) and Light Rail Transit (LRT) lines.
Community members noted that eligible passengers are entitled to a 50 percent fare discount on MRT-3, LRT-1, and LRT-2, aiming to make public transportation more affordable for vulnerable groups.
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