By Junex Doronio

MANILA — Leaders of the House Committee on Appropriations formally presented the proposed P6.352-trillion national budget for 2025 to the plenary on Monday (16 Sept 2024), marking the start of crucial debates on the country’s fiscal priorities for the coming year.

Education remains a top priority, with an allocation of P977.6 billion aimed at ensuring accessible, quality education for all Filipinos. The Department of Public Works and Highways is set to receive P900 billion, while the health sector will be granted P297.6 billion to bolster healthcare services nationwide.

A significant portion of the budget—P2.120 trillion, or 33.38%—is earmarked for human and social development programs, reflecting the government’s commitment to improving the quality of life for Filipinos.

House Appropriations Committee Chair, Rep. Zaldy Co of Ako Bicol, and Senior Vice Chair, Rep. Stella Luz Quimbo of Marikina City’s 2nd District, called on their colleagues to prioritize the swift passage of House Bill (HB) No. 10800, also known as the General Appropriations Bill (GAB). Their appeal followed six weeks of rigorous budget hearings that shaped the proposed 2025 national spending plan.

In his sponsorship speech, Co underscored the critical role of the budget in addressing the needs of the Filipino people, describing it as an essential exercise of Congress’ “power of the purse.” He stressed the importance of ensuring that public funds are spent transparently and in accordance with the law.

“The government is focused on ensuring that we have well-equipped hospitals to care for Filipinos, sufficient food supplies, and decent housing,” Co remarked.

Quimbo echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the national budget is more than a set of figures—it represents a strategic plan to address the daily challenges faced by Filipino families.

“This budget is not just about numbers. It is a plan to ensure that every peso is spent wisely and felt by every Filipino, especially those most in need. Together, we will push for a budget that brings hope and progress,” Quimbo concluded.

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