Marcos Jr. wants priority programs in 2023 budget

President-elect Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed the Department of Budget and Management to ensure his priority programs are included in the 2023 national budget.

The focus areas for the 2023 National Expenditure Program include agricultural and food security, climate change adaptation, economic recovery, improved healthcare and education, enhanced infrastructure projects, and renewable energy sources.

Spending will also prioritize tourism and job creation, as well as sustainable development.

Incoming Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman stated that the incoming administration's goal is to promote broad-based and inclusive economic recovery and growth.

The inter-agency Development Budget Coordination Committee previously approved a proposed P5.086 trillion national budget for 2023.

The incoming administration has approximately two months to incorporate these priorities into the National Expenditure Program before it is submitted to Congress.

Typically, new presidents have full control over budget priorities starting from their second year in office, meaning the 2024 budget would be the first fully crafted by Marcos Jr.'s administration.