'Over P600 B in 2026 budget at risk'

A civil society group warned that over P600 billion in the 2026 budget could be at risk, citing increased allocations for aid programs, unprogrammed appropriations and other infrastructure projects.

- By MARCO LUIS BEECH

While acknowledging that no budget is perfect, People's Budget Coalition spokesperson AJ Montesa said lawmakers should be sensitive to the current context, noting that public trust in the budget process has been shaken by the flood control issue.

"Based on our analysis, there are still many red flags and risks. While they claim there are safeguards for aid programs, our experience suggests these may not be sufficient and they should not have increased or doubled the budget for pork-related programs," he said.

For 2026, the Congress increased the funding for AICS or Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations to P63.89 billion, up from the proposed P26.9 billion. Also, the Medical Assistance to Indigent and Financially Incapacitated Patients has been allotted P51 billion.