Business · Philippines Bureau
Health department warns of program cuts under 2027 budget proposal
The Department of Health has cautioned that several key programs face potential disruption if its 2027 budget allocation falls short of initial proposals. Health Secretary Edwin Mercado made the warning during congressional budget hearings this week.
LSN Philippines ·
The Department of Health (DOH) has flagged concerns that budget reductions in the 2027 National Expenditure Program could compromise critical health initiatives, Health Secretary Edwin Mercado said Wednesday.
Mercado raised the issue during House committee on appropriations deliberations on the DOH's proposed budget for the coming fiscal year. The agency's allocation under the current draft falls below what health officials had originally requested, potentially affecting service delivery and program implementation across the department.
The budget shortfall could impact various DOH operations, though Mercado did not specify which programs would face the most significant constraints. The warning comes as Congress continues reviewing agency budgets ahead of the 2027 fiscal year.
The DOH's budget concerns reflect broader resource constraints facing the health sector as the government balances spending priorities across multiple departments and agencies. Congressional approval of the final 2027 National Expenditure Program remains pending.