The House of Representatives has forwarded a proposed P6.325-trillion national budget for 2025 to the Senate, which includes significant amendments aimed at enhancing social safety nets and food security.
According to Rep. Zaldy Co, chair of the House Committee on Appropriations, the budget allocates an additional P292.23 billion for vulnerable sectors, including low-income families, farmers, and soldiers.
Notable increases include P39.8 billion for the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations and the Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program, which will see funding three times higher than the previous year.
The budget also prioritizes education, with P30.01 billion for scholarships and P7 billion for school facility improvements, while the Armed Forces will receive an additional P8.44 billion to address security challenges, including a 67% increase in soldiers’ daily subsistence allowance.
The House is optimistic about swift Senate approval, having made cuts to the Office of the Vice President’s budget due to concerns over the alleged misuse of confidential funds.
Source: PhilNews24 | October 26, 2024
