P158.6-B Unprogrammed Funds in 2026 Nat’l Budget Spark Controversy

Budget Scandal? Davao City Rep. Isidro Ungab delivers a privilege speech before the House of Representatives on August 4, 2025, formally contesting amendments to the proposed 2025 national budget.

P158.6-B Unprogrammed Funds in 2026 Nat’l Budget Spark Controversy

By Wilma N. Yamzon – TheNationWeek.Com | August 5, 2025

MANILA, Philippines – The proposed P6.3-trillion 2026 National Expenditure Program (NEP) is facing intense scrutiny over P158.67 billion in “unprogrammed appropriations” earmarked for projects and other government initiatives.

The funds have ignited debates on transparency and accountability in government spending, as fiscal watchdogs and opposition leaders are questioning the accessibility and intended use of such a substantial sum.

“The criteria for the use of the funds are ambiguous and subject to interpretation,” said Davao City 3rd District Rep. Isidro Ungab.

“Such vagueness raises significant concerns about the utilization of this substantial amount and whether it will truly serve the interests of the Filipino people,” he stressed.

The NEP breaks down into P4.405 trillion in new general appropriations, with P4.247 trillion classified under “Programmed New Appropriations.”

Automatic appropriations, covering essential expenses like retirement benefits, national tax allotments for local governments, and interest payments on national debt, account for P2.105 trillion.

While the unprogrammed funds inflate the total appropriations to P6.511 trillion before deductions, their conditional nature remains unknown.

Adding another layer of complexity, the budget earmarks P1.202 trillion in revenues for specific activities, requiring separate accounting.

The bulk of this, P1.175 trillion, categorized as “Use of Income in the General Fund,” primarily benefits local government units (P1.068 trillion) and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (P89.411 billion).

The remaining P0.027 trillion, designated as “Special Accounts in the General Fund,” is distributed among various government departments.

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is projected to receive P27.562 million, with P10 million allocated for expenditures.

BARMM is set to get P89.411 million from taxes, fees, and charges collected within the region.

As Congress prepares to deliberate on the proposed 2026 budget, the contentious allocation is expected to take center stage.

The public awaits further clarification on the intended use of the P158.67 billion funds, seeking assurances that taxpayer money will be managed with integrity, efficiency, and in the best interests of the nation.