MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has vetoed billions in appropriations under the 2025 national budget, marking what is described as the most extensive budget purge in Philippine history, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said.

The remark came after the continuous scrutiny of the 2025 national budget, even after it was signed in December last year.

Bersamin said the President’s decision aimed to eliminate unnecessary allocations and redirect resources to projects that would have a greater impact on public welfare.

“No president before him had ever so deeply and comprehensively purged the budget of unnecessary items,” Bersamin said in a statement Monday.

He added that Marcos Jr. later approved the reallocation of funds to programs designed to spur economic growth and improve social services.

“There are now stricter conditionalities for budget releases, ensuring alignment with national priorities and protection from partisan interests,” Bersamin said.

He also assured the public that all adjustments comply with existing laws and will be implemented transparently, in line with good governance principles.

“All of this stems from the recognition that financing the budget is shouldered by the people; therefore, its implementation must honor the sacrifices they have made,” he said.

Budget remains under scrutiny

The 2025 national budget has faced criticism from lawmakers and watchdog groups, who argue that certain allocations remain excessive and unjustified including the slashing of state insurer Philippine Health Insurance Corporation’s budget. 

Even after the signing of the national budget in December 30, critics and former administration allies hit the budget, with former chief executive Rodrigo Duterte calling the national budget as an “invalid legislation” after Davao City Representative Isidro Ungab alleged that there were some discrepancies in the Bicameral Conference Committee report on the 2025 national budget. 

Ungab said that some portions of this year’s government spending plan were left blank. 

Marcos already told Duterte is a liar following the latter’s claims.

“He’s lying. He’s a president, he knows that you cannot pass a GAA without any – with a blank… He’s lying,” Marcos said.