The bicameral conference committee on Wednesday approved the final version of House Bill No. 10800 or the proposed PHP6.352 trillion 2025 national budget.

The measure retained the PHP733 million budget for the Office of the Vice President.

Senators and members of the House of Representatives likewise agreed to continue allcations for the Ayuda para sa Kapos and Kita Program (AKAP), but was reduced to PHP26 billion from PHP39 billion.

In his remarks, Senate President Francis Escudero acknowledged the rigorous process undertaken by the bicameral committee to harmonize the differing versions of the proposed budget from the two chambers.

“This is the most important legislation passed annually by Congress,” Escudero emphasized, underscoring the crucial role of the budget in shaping the nation’s priorities.

He noted the challenges faced in allocating resources, highlighting the principle of balancing additions and cuts.

“We cannot increase allocations without making reductions elsewhere. This is why the work on any budget proposal is so demanding,” Escudero said.

Escudero also defended the alignment of the budget with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s plans, clarifying that it was not a matter of blind adherence but a recognition of the overwhelming electoral mandate given to him by over 31 million Filipinos.

“It is only right for Congress to support the President’s vision and promises to the Filipino people,” he said.

Senator Grace Poe, chairperson of the Senate Finance panel, said the approved budget reflects a significant increase in funding for key sectors such as social protection, education, health, livelihood, and disaster response emphasizing that these increases demonstrate the government’s commitment to uplifting vulnerable sectors and investing in the nation’s future.

She assured that essential areas like defense, transportation, and infrastructure were also prioritized.

Poe also cited plans to strengthen national security, improve connectivity across regions, and build resilient infrastructure to protect communities from natural disasters.

“Bawat linya ng budget na ito ay resulta ng ating pakikipaglaban para sa inyo. Ang bawat pondo at programa ay idinisensyo upang tugunan ang inyong pangangailangan (Every line of this budget is the result of our fight for you. Each fund and program are designed to meet your needs),” Poe said. (PNA)