MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday ordered the strict implementation of a provision in the 2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA) prohibiting politicians from taking part in the distribution of cash and other forms of financial assistance, saying the measure is meant to ensure that public funds reach their intended beneficiaries without patronage.

During the signing of the ₱6.793-trillion national budget at Malacañan Palace, Marcos stressed that government assistance must never be used for partisan or political influence.

“We will strictly implement the provision on the ‘Prohibition on Political Involvement in the Distribution of Cash and Other Forms of Financial Assistance,’” the President said.

“Politicians shall be barred from the distribution of any financial aid and we shall ensure that the support reaches the intended beneficiaries without patronage,” he added.

“Walang bawas, walang kulang,” Marcos said, emphasizing that assistance programs must be delivered through proper government channels and protected from patronage politics.

The government provides various forms of cash aid and financial assistance, including the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS), Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD), Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), as well as cash grants and pensions for senior citizens and persons with disabilities.

Marcos also highlighted the increased allocations under the Local Government Support Fund, which he said would empower local government units to address development needs, support livelihoods, and build safe and resilient communities.

“I stand firm in my constitutional duty to ensure the faithful execution of laws. Therefore, I hereby condition the implementation of certain provisions in this Act to conform to existing laws, policies, rules, and regulations,” the President said.

Among the budget items subject to conditional implementation are Engineering and Administrative Overhead Expenses, payment of retirement benefits and pensions, capacity development programs, and foreign service posts.

The President said several programs and projects will likewise be carried out within existing legal and regulatory frameworks, including the School-Based Feeding Program, Medical Scholarship and Return Service Program, PAMANA Program, residential care services for vulnerable groups by accredited social welfare agencies, infrastructure projects of government-owned and -controlled corporations, and programs for senior citizens and persons with disabilities.

“This shall ensure that these programs promote our long-term development goals,” Marcos said.