Malacañang is confident the 2026 national budget can withstand any constitutional challenge before the Supreme Court, even as some lawmakers prepare to question portions of it.
Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said the administration recognizes the right of lawmakers to seek judicial review, following statements from Reps. Edgar Erice and Leila de Lima raising concerns over the legality of unprogrammed appropriations.
“They have the right to go to the Supreme Court and ask whether this part of the 2026 national budget is unconstitutional,” Castro said during a Palace briefing Tuesday.
“If they file a petition, the administration will respond and we will wait for the result and the decision of the Supreme Court,” she added.
Erice earlier said he was preparing to challenge the budget in court, particularly over unprogrammed fund appropriations, while De Lima expressed dissatisfaction with reducing rather than removing the questioned items, calling them unconstitutional.
Asked if the Palace is confident the spending measure will survive judicial scrutiny, Castro said the administration believes the document complies with the law and the Constitution.
“Yes, they are confident that the budget crafted now is the cleanest and most orderly, and that it is for the people,” she said.
“The President is confident,” Castro added.
The 2026 national budget, signed by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Monday, January 5, 2025, has drawn scrutiny over unprogrammed appropriations, which critics say grant the executive excessive discretion over funds.
Malacañang, however, maintained that the proposal underwent review and aligns with government priorities.
Castro said the administration will abide by any eventual ruling from the Supreme Court once a petition is filed.
