The House of Representatives will commence plenary debates on the proposed P6.352-trillion national budget for 2025 this Monday. Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez stated that the budget will support the Agenda for Prosperity and Bagong Pilipinas programs led by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr.
Romualdez emphasized that the budget would focus on assisting the poor through various social programs, financial aid, and medical initiatives. It will also aim to stabilize food prices, especially rice, which has fallen to P42 per kilo. He added that the budget will support farmers and fisherfolk, aiming for increased harvests and adequate food supply at lower prices.
In addition to social and food initiatives, the budget will fund infrastructure projects, particularly road networks and classroom construction in underserved areas, as well as support education. Romualdez also expressed hope that the budget will help sustain the country's economic growth at 6% or higher.
The plenary debates are scheduled to last eight days, starting at 10 AM daily, with a final vote on the budget expected on September 25. Speaker Romualdez thanked the House Committee on Appropriations, led by Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co, and its senior vice chairperson, Marikina City Rep. Stella Quimbo, for their efforts in advancing the budget on time.
The debates will cover funding for major departments and agencies, including the Department of Finance, the Department of Justice, and the National Economic and Development Authority. Other agencies like the Department of National Defense, the Department of Education, and the controversial Office of the Vice President will have their budgets discussed throughout the week.
Comments