Money, money

The government did two things with our money in 2024. Both will impact on our political and economic consciousness in 2025 and perhaps, beyond.

- TONY LOPEZ

One, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, the reincarnation of a once bankrupt Central Bank, has removed former presidents and heroes from our paper currencies.

Two, our politicians, particularly our senators and congressmen, mangled the 2025 national government budget beyond belief and relief. The money monstrosity, P6.326 trillion, opens exciting (for our politicians) and salivatory (for our politicians) possibilities for premeditated plunder of the unprecedented kind, a horrible act of cruelty on our people.

My columnist colleagues in this paper have adequately pointed out the inanities in the 2025 budget and its huge possibilities for abuse.

On Dec. 30, 2024, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed the budget bill into law. He sounded reassuringly enough. He said:

"On this day that we honor our national hero, we enact the 2025 General Appropriations Act. And through this measure the dreams of our heroes are realized by a nation birthed by their sacrifices.

"This budget reflects our collective commitment to transforming economic gains into meaningful outcomes for every Filipino. It is designed not just to address our present needs, but to sustain growth and to uplift the lives of generations that are yet to come.

"In the first two years of this administration, we focused on creating the foundation for an inclusive, sustainable and resilient Philippines. From targeted reforms to strategic investments, we ensured that our progress is felt in the daily lives of every Filipino.

"Today, we build on that momentum, guided by the same precision, purpose and unwavering determination."