President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday assured the public that the proposed 2025 national budget will be signed into law before December 31.
“I think we’ll be able to do it before the year ends,” President Marcos told Palace reporters, addressing concerns over the delayed signing of the General Appropriations Act (GAA).
The president said his administration is conducting a line-by-line review of the budget, which has already been approved by Congress, to ensure that resources are directed toward essential projects and programs.
While the budget was initially slated for signing on Dec. 20, the president explained that additional time is needed to vet certain provisions, particularly items added during bicameral deliberations.
The president noted that some projects included in the budget lack proper documentation or clear objectives, raising concerns about transparency and accountability.
President Marcos also highlighted the need to avoid unnecessary spending, given the government’s limited fiscal space and outstanding debts.
“That’s why we need to go to the right place to pay off the debt. We will get back what we spent, from what we borrowed. That’s what we are trying to clarify,” President Marcos said.
Despite the rigorous review, he expressed confidence that the timeline for the budget’s approval will be met, ensuring the continuity of government programs and services in the coming year.
The 2025 national budget includes allocations for infrastructure, social services, and economic recovery efforts, among other priorities.
