Marcos signs ₱6.793-T national budget for 2026

President Marcos signed the ₱6.793-trillion 2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA) in Malacañan on Monday, Jan. 5, stressing that it is meant to restore public trust and enforce accountability after a year marked by disasters, economic strain, and the exposure of corruption in government.

- By ARGYLL CYRUS GEDUCOS

The President said the challenges of 2025 made it clear that “real change could no longer wait”.

He added that the government must now move forward with “difficult but needed reforms in governance” to rebuild trust and deliver an honest and effective government to Filipinos.

“Let us take this opportunity to start moving forward with difficult but needed reforms in governance, to rebuild the trust in us, to strengthen accountability, and deliver an honest and effective government to the Filipinos,” he said. “This administration will work to improve the system, strengthen accountability, and put an end to corruption.”

According to Marcos, the 2026 budget is a critical part of his administration’s medium-term development plan and comes at a “critical juncture” for sweeping reforms in politics and governance.

"No deductions, nothing missing," he said, referring to his directive to ensure that public funds and assistance reach their intended beneficiaries without patronage. "Every program and project will undergo thorough review to ensure that it has clear benefits for the people, especially for the sectors that need it most." The Chief Executive likewise assured the public that their concerns over the budget were heard, saying, "We hear you," as he vowed stricter scrutiny of programs and projects.

"I share your desire to ensure that every peso of taxes goes to the right projects and the real needs of our people," he said. "In the 2026 national budget, the direction of your government is clear. We will be more prudent, more careful, and more responsible in spending public funds."

Free from pork barrel

In a press briefing following the budget signing, Executive Secretary Ralph Recto assured the public that the 2026 GAA is free from pork barrel.