News Details

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has authorized the release of ₱1.307 trillion in programmed appropriations to stimulate the Philippine economy, accelerate recovery in calamity-hit areas, and expand social welfare programs, Malacañang announced on Thursday.

In a Palace press briefing, Press Officer Claire Castro said the fund release underscores the government’s commitment to inclusive growth and aims to generate a strong “multiplier effect” across sectors.

“When public funds are properly used for infrastructure, health, education, and direct subsidies, it creates more economic activity that benefits the entire nation,” Castro said.

According to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), the disbursement includes targeted allocations for social services, agriculture, education, employment, and health to ensure that government spending reaches communities most in need.

Social Protection and Disaster Response

Of the total, ₱2.74 billion will augment the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund for emergency cash transfers and quick response replenishment ahead of the typhoon season.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will receive over ₱27 billion for key social programs:

• ₱9.52 billion – Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps)

• ₱7.03 billion – Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS)

• ₱5.77 billion – Social Pension for Indigent Senior Citizens

• ₱4.83 billion – Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program

Agriculture and Food Security

The Department of Agriculture (DA) will get ₱7.33 billion for the National Rice Program and ₱2.47 billion for the National Livestock Program.
The National Food Authority (NFA) will receive ₱2.29 billion for its buffer stocking and targeted rice distribution programs to ensure food availability and price stability.

Education and Youth Development

Education remains a top priority, with ₱203.82 billion allocated to the Department of Education (DepEd) for teachers’ benefits, school operations, and subsidies.

• ₱153.71 billion – Personnel Services including bonuses and Salary Standardization adjustments

• ₱23.62 billion – School Operations

• ₱32.79 billion – Government Assistance and Subsidies

In addition, ₱31.78 billion has been released to state universities and colleges (SUCs) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) for programs under the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (RA 10931), covering free tuition and financial aid to students.

Employment and Livelihood

To sustain job generation, ₱4.89 billion has been earmarked for Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) programs such as:

• Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD)

• Government Internship Program

• Integrated Livelihood Program

• Adjustment Measures Program

These initiatives are expected to support income recovery and improve livelihoods in vulnerable sectors.

Health and OFW Support

The Department of Health (DOH) will receive over ₱14.4 billion, including:

• ₱4.3 billion for hospital operations in Metro Manila

• ₱9.96 billion for regional hospitals

• ₱787.95 million for Medical Assistance to Indigent Patients

• ₱179 million for the Cancer Assistance Fund

For Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), ₱528.09 million has been allocated to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) for the OFW Hospital, emergency assistance, and reintegration programs. The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) will receive ₱321 million for its Emergency Repatriation Program.

Government Employees and Economic Boost

A total of ₱63.7 billion is allotted for year-end bonuses and benefits of government employees, including teachers and frontliners.

DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman said the funding will ensure that the final quarter of 2025 drives both economic expansion and social upliftment.

“Our programmed spending for the fourth quarter will boost year-end growth and ensure that every peso spent directly benefits the Filipino people,” Pangandaman said.

The Palace reaffirmed that this major disbursement aims to stimulate productivity, generate jobs, and accelerate recovery—anchoring the country’s path toward sustained and inclusive economic growth.

NPO News Team | PNA – PR