By Darryl John Esguerra | Philippine News Agency
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is set to sign the Proposed 2026 National Budget in the first week of January, Executive Secretary Ralph Recto said Wednesday.
Recto clarified this in a text message to reporters amid questions on whether the President would be able to sign the spending measure before the end of the year.
The proposed 2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA) totals P6.793 trillion and aims to fund key government programs, infrastructure projects, and social services for the upcoming year.
Congress earlier adjusted its legislative calendar to accommodate the ratification of the bicameral conference committee report on the 2026 budget, which is scheduled on Dec. 29, a day before lawmakers adjourn session on Dec. 30.
The revised timeline raised uncertainty about whether the Office of the President would have enough time to thoroughly review the budget before the end of the year.
Malacañang officials have repeatedly stressed that the President prefers a careful and comprehensive review of the budget to ensure that public funds are properly allocated and aligned with national development priorities.
The Palace earlier said the President had already mobilized his economic and legal teams to immediately review the bicameral-approved budget once transmitted to Malacañang.
The administration has emphasized that avoiding a reenacted budget remains a priority, as delays in budget approval could slow down the implementation of government programs and projects at the start of 2026.
