Malacañang has rejected calls by lawmakers to remove the P250 billion unprogrammed appropriations in the proposed 2026 budget, saying the funds are vital for urgent and unforeseen government expenses.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro emphasized that these funds are not spent arbitrarily and require strict documentation before release.
Critics, including Rep. Chel Diokno and Senate leaders, argue that the large standby funds lack transparency and may be used for pre-planned programs without proper scrutiny.
The controversy has intensified amid investigations revealing the misuse of flood control funds through covert budget insertions.
Despite calls for zeroing out the unprogrammed funds, the Palace maintains they are necessary reserves safeguarded under conditional implementation.
Source: PhilNews24 | October 9, 2025
