Mamamayang Liberal (ML) Partylist Representative Leila de Lima on Monday said President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. should have scrapped the entire unprogrammed appropriations (UA) in the 2026 national budget instead of merely reducing it.
“Vetoing a considerably significant amount— or any amount— in unprogrammed appropriations is NOT the point. It is still ‘shadow pork,’” de Lima said, reacting to Marcos’ veto of ₱92.5 billion worth of UA items.
She argued that UA is unconstitutional, citing Justice Hernando’s opinion in the PhilHealth case, which voided the transfer of ₱89.9 billion in excess PhilHealth funds to the treasury.
“They lack definite and identifiable revenue sources, bypass constitutional safeguards, and surrender congressional power of the purse to executive discretion,” she added.
De Lima also pointed to Executive Secretary Ralph Recto’s admission that government revenues have barely exceeded targets.
“So, hindi po ba illogical nang magka-UAs, in the first place? Kung halos wala nang excess revenues ang aasahan, anong pera ang igagasta sa mga UAs? Bakit pa magsasalpak ng mga items sa UA?” she asked.
She stressed that essential items should be placed under programmed appropriations, while excess revenues should be handled through special appropriations from Congress.
“Uulit-ulitin natin: Yung mga talagang kailangan ay dapat inilalagay na sa programmed appropriations… UAs have no place in the national budget!” de Lima said.
Under current rules, UA items may only be funded if revenues exceed targets or through borrowings.