July 02, 2024 - In a significant move aimed at advancing the nation’s development goals, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has given his nod to the proposed Fiscal Year 2025 National Expenditure Program (NEP). This approval underscores the administration’s commitment to prioritize key sectors outlined in the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028.
During a recent Cabinet meeting at the Malacañan Palace, DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman presented the comprehensive budget plan amounting to PhP6.352 trillion. President Marcos emphasized the strategic allocation of resources, stating, "You see a really good thing. Since I’ve seen it before on the macro level, I think the priorities in terms of our proposed appropriations, upon addressing it, weighted our priorities properly in terms of appropriations."
The NEP for FY 2025 focuses on crucial pillars including food security, social protection, healthcare, housing, disaster resilience, infrastructure, digital connectivity, and energization. Key government agencies slated to receive substantial appropriations include the Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Health (DOH), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and Department of National Defense (DND).
Reflecting the administration’s commitment to social welfare and economic progress, allocations are structured to prioritize maintenance and operating expenses, personnel services, capital outlays, and financial expenses. The budget proposals were meticulously evaluated based on fiscal space, project readiness, absorptive capacity, and alignment with strategic frameworks such as the Budget Priorities Framework and PDP 2023-2028.
Under the PDP 2023-2028, the government aims to enhance human and social development, foster economic growth through sectoral transformation, and establish an efficient bureaucratic environment. This comprehensive approach includes initiatives to bolster infrastructure, accelerate climate action, and strengthen disaster resilience.
President Marcos’ approval of the FY 2025 NEP sets the stage for sustained economic growth and social progress, signaling a proactive stance towards achieving national development objectives in the coming years.