The administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. began 2026 under a reenacted budget, after the new General Appropriations Bill (GAB) failed to pass in December. According to Malacañang, it is not expected to affect government operations while awaiting the President's signature.
The passage of the P6.793-trillion national budget has been delayed due to a clash of views on the DPWH budget and a thorough review due to allegations of corruption in flood control projects. Executive Secretary Ralph Recto promised that the proposed budget will pass legal and technical requirements.
Although some experts have warned about the impact of the reenacted budget on the economy and public services, Malacañang said that it is only temporary and that the budget will be signed in the first week of January. The last time a reenacted budget occurred was in 2019 during the Rodrigo Duterte's term.
Meanwhile, the DPWH reiterated its commitment to integrity, transparency, and accountability for 2026. Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon pledged to eliminate overpricing and deliver quality infrastructure at the right price.
The Makabayan bloc strongly condemned the 2026 GAB, calling it pork-laden and for political survival. According to them, LGU pork reached P73.2 billion, including the increase in the Local Government Support Fund, Financial Assistance, and other lump-sum funds that allegedly fuel patronage politics.
