MANILA – Despite President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s veto of P92.5 billion in unprogrammed appropriations from the P6.793-trillion 2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA)—signed into law on January 5, 2026—several lawmakers, particularly from the minority bloc, expressed dissatisfaction, arguing the cuts were insufficient to address patronage risks and questionable insertions.
The veto reduced unprogrammed funds to P150.9 billion (the lowest since 2019), retaining three items deemed essential while striking seven others flagged as discretionary or duplicative.
Reactions from Lawmakers
Opposition and progressive representatives criticized the partial veto:
- Minority Bloc (collectively): Called for a P319 billion total veto, labeling the P92.5B cut “too small” and failing to eliminate most “highly questionable” bicam insertions.
- Rep. Arlene Brosas (ACT Teachers Party-list): Described it as “very disappointing” and a “missed opportunity” to curb pork barrel politics.
- Rep. France Castro (ACT Teachers): Said Marcos “had the chance to send a strong message against pork but chose to veto only a fraction.”
- Rep. Raoul Manuel (Kabataan Party-list): Called the veto “insufficient,” leaving “glaring insertions” intact.
Former Rep. Carlos Isagani Zarate echoed: “A step forward but still very inadequate.”
Supporters of the veto praised it as a balanced approach preserving critical programs while enforcing discipline.
Vetoed vs. Retained Items
| Category | Amount (P Billion) | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Vetoed (7 items) | 92.5 | Discretionary/duplicative (e.g., GOCC support, certain incentives) |
| Retained (3 items) | 150.9 | Essential: Foreign-assisted projects (P97.3B), AFP modernization (P50B), risk management (P3.6B) |
The debate underscores ongoing tensions over fiscal transparency amid the flood control scandal fallout.