MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed the P6.326 trillion national budget for 2025 on Monday which vetoes over P194 billion worth of line items deemed inconsistent with the administration’s priorities.  

The signing, initially set before Christmas, was postponed after calls from various sectors and lawmakers for closer scrutiny, including the chief executive’s sister.  

“Every centavo must go to programs that truly uplift lives, strengthen communities, and secure the Philippines’ future,” Marcos said during the signing ceremony. 

Originally proposed at P6.352 trillion, the budget was reduced after a detailed assessment of its provisions, according to the chief executive

“After an exhaustive review, we directly vetoed over P194 billion worth of line items that are not aligned with our priorities.”  

Among the vetoed items, P26.065 billion was allocated for projects under the Department of Public Works and Highways, while P168.240 billion fell under “Unprogrammed Appropriations.”

Conditional implementation was also applied to certain provisions to ensure effective fund utilization. The controversial “Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP)” will be implemented in coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Labor and Employment, and National Economic and Development Authority.  

“This strategic approach ensures long-term improvement in beneficiaries’ lives while guarding against misuse and fragmented benefits,” Marcos said.  

The President also noted that all budget increases and new appropriations would undergo proper cash programming, comply with budget execution rules, and secure approvals from relevant offices.  

“Our approach guarantees proper implementation of programs and projects, ensuring they benefit the Filipino people,” he added.  

Marcos said the government’s focus on social services, particularly education and health, alongside economic services, infrastructure, and agriculture.  

“Makakaasa kayo na sa budget na ito, ipagpapatuloy at papalawigin pa natin ang ating serbisyo, alinsunod sa ating Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028,” he said.