ON Monday, DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman turned over the National Expenditure Program (NEP) for the coming year to the House of Representatives.
The proposed budget totals ₱6.352 trillion, equivalent to 22 percent of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP).
This reflects a 10.1 percent increase from the ₱5.768 trillion budget of 2024.
Education is the top priority with an allocation of ₱977.6 billion, aimed at improving the quality and accessibility of education for all Filipinos.
Public Works will receive a significant allocation of ₱900 billion.
On the other hand, ₱297.6 billion was allocated for Health to continue the implementation of the Universal Health Care Act and ensure accessible and affordable healthcare services.
The allocation to Interior and Local Government is ₱278.4 billion.
About ₱256.1 billion is designated for the Defense sector to promote national security, modernize defense capabilities, and ensure the safety and sovereignty of the country.
Social Welfare will receive ₱230.1 billion.
Agriculture will get ₱211.3 billion.
Transportation sees an increase with ₱180.9 billion allocated for infrastructure development and modernization.
The Judiciary is allocated ₱63.6 billion, and finally, the Department of Justice will receive ₱40.6 billion.