Politics · Philippines Bureau
Diokno warns lawmakers against politicizing 2027 budget allocation
Former Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno has called on Congress to approve President Marcos' proposed P7.2-trillion budget without significant alterations, cautioning lawmakers against using the appropriations process for political purposes.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — Benjamin Diokno, who previously headed the Department of Budget and Management and now sits on the Monetary Board, has urged legislators to respect the administration's 2027 budget proposal during the congressional review process.
Diokno emphasized that lawmakers should "resist the temptation" to substantially rewrite the draft P7.2-trillion general appropriations bill for political objectives, according to sources familiar with his position on the matter.
The former budget official stressed the importance of adhering to constitutional limits on congressional budget modifications. The Constitution restricts Congress's ability to increase budget allocations beyond those proposed by the executive branch, except through revenue-generating measures.
Diokno's comments come as Congress prepares to deliberate on the administration's spending plan for the coming fiscal year. His remarks highlight ongoing concerns about maintaining fiscal discipline and preventing the budget process from becoming a vehicle for legislative horse-trading and political maneuvering.
The push for budget restraint underscores broader efforts by economic managers to keep the government's fiscal position sustainable while supporting President Marcos' policy priorities.