House Speaker Martin Romualdez issued a stern warning to those with personal interests in the proposed national budget for the coming year.
In his opening address before the plenary discussion on the 2025 General Appropriations Bill, Romualdez criticized certain detractors who belittle the role of the House while calling for accountability yet fail in the proper allocation of funds.
Romualdez emphasized that Congress will not tolerate hypocrisy and will uphold the public’s trust.
He also noted that no one can escape responsibility as all will be held accountable through the proper processes in Congress.
He stressed that the Lower House prioritizes the Filipino people, ensuring that funds are allocated responsibly and spent wisely.
Contrary to criticisms, the House has diligently scrutinized each government agency’s expenditures, making sure the programs align with the government’s priorities.
Romualdez added that the House does not favor anyone and will not bow to pressure or special interests, maintaining its commitment to good governance and fiscal responsibility.
Meanwhile, Appropriations Panel Chairman and Ako Bicol Partylist Representative Elizaldy Co, along with Senior Vice Chair Marikina Representative Stella Luz Quimbo, urged their fellow lawmakers to prioritize the swift passage of the P6.352 trillion budget for fiscal year 2025.
In his sponsorship speech, Rep. Co highlighted the importance of the national budget as a key exercise of Congress’ “power of the purse” and its critical role in addressing the needs of the Filipino people.
He emphasized the duty of ensuring that public funds are allocated efficiently, fairly, and in accordance with the law.
The proposed budget covers public programs and projects aimed at promoting economic and social development.
Key sectors prioritized in the budget include education, with an allocation of P977.6 billion, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) with P900 billion, and healthcare services with P297.6 billion.
A total of P2.120 trillion, representing 33.38% of the budget, is allocated to human and social development programs, including support for the legacy projects of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Rep. Quimbo underscored that the 2025 budget is not just numbers—it is a plan to ensure that every peso is utilized effectively for the benefit of every Filipino.