Politics · Philippines Bureau
Philippines urged to speed spending, prep for severe El Niño
Executive Secretary Ralph Recto has directed government agencies to accelerate public spending and advance procurement plans for 2027, with particular focus on preparations for an anticipated strong El Niño event. Officials have been called to intensify efforts in the final quarter of the year.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — The Philippine government has been ordered to ramp up its spending pace and begin early procurement activities ahead of anticipated climate challenges, with Executive Secretary Ralph Recto emphasizing the need for coordinated action in coming months.
Recto directed government agencies to prioritize accelerated public spending and advance their 2027 procurement programs, particularly those focused on El Niño preparedness. The instruction underscores official concerns about the potential impact of an unusually strong El Niño phenomenon on the country's agricultural sector, water resources, and infrastructure.
"We have one more quarter to improve spending for the year. Let's get our acts together in the fourth quarter," Recto said, calling on agencies to coordinate more effectively and execute their budgeted programs without delay.
The push for early procurement reflects broader government strategy to position the country's defenses against severe weather patterns before the anticipated El Niño takes effect. By accelerating spending now, officials aim to ensure that necessary equipment, supplies, and infrastructure improvements are in place well ahead of the period when such resources will be most critical.
The directive comes as the Philippines continues strengthening its disaster preparedness mechanisms and climate resilience programs across vulnerable regions.