Social Watch Philippines (SWP) on Sunday called on President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to veto about ₱319 billion worth of spending items in the proposed 2026 national budget, warning that last-minute insertions undermine transparency and fuel patronage politics.
The watchdog criticized Congress for introducing major revisions during bicameral deliberations without meaningful public scrutiny. It accused lawmakers of reviving pork barrel–style allocations through lump sums and late insertions.
“The 2026 budget is not people-centered despite the bicam committee’s claims. It is extremely disappointing how Congress ignores public anger over unprecedented levels of corruption and the alarming use of public funds to promote patronage politics,” said SWP co-convenor Dr. Ma. Victoria Raquiza.
Raquiza noted that livestreamed proceedings masked off-camera side meetings where significant changes were made.
“Such actions deepen the public trust deficit in government and intensify cynicism toward the government’s commitment to uphold every Filipino’s right to a just and fair budget,” she added.
Among the items flagged for veto were ₱81.94 billion for the Department of Public Works and Highways’ infrastructure programs, ₱8.9 billion for farm-to-market roads, ₱10 billion for Presidential Assistance for Farmers and Fisherfolk, ₱5.25 billion in confidential funds, and ₱138 billion in social protection programs. SWP also raised concerns over ₱243.4 billion in unprogrammed appropriations, urging stricter disclosure or outright veto.
“The Filipino people are angry and frustrated over how their money is being spent. We call on the President to veto these questionable budget items and stand with the people. This veto is essential to rebuild the integrity of the budget process,” Raquiza said.