President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has ordered the reallocation of funds initially earmarked for the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) IT program to support the development of the country’s integrated 911 emergency hotline system, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla announced on Tuesday.
According to Remulla, the budget adjustment includes removing an additional PHP 500 million intelligence fund that had been added to the General Appropriations Act (GAA). This brings the PNP’s budget back to its original allocation of PHP 820 million from the revised PHP 1.3 billion.
“As instructed by the President, the Budget Secretary will revert the PNP IT program’s allocation, including the additional intelligence funds. These savings will fund the launch and bidding process for the nationwide 911 system,” Remulla explained during a Palace briefing.
The integrated 911 system, intended to enhance emergency response nationwide, will be subject to stringent audits and competitive bidding, according to Remulla.
Compliance with Budget Rules
Addressing concerns about potential conflicts with the 2025 General Appropriations Act, Remulla cited Section 6 of President Marcos’ veto message, which allows the executive branch to reprogram appropriations under specific conditions.
“Budgetary changes must align with government priorities and fiscal management rules,” Remulla said, noting that the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) will oversee the reallocation process.
This move reflects the administration’s focus on improving national emergency response infrastructure while maintaining fiscal prudence.