Marcos signs P6.7 trillion budget barring politicians from aid distribution

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed the P6.7-trillion national budget for 2026, emphasizing that its distribution will prioritize beneficiaries and prohibit political patronage.

The General Appropriations Act includes a specific provision to prevent politicians from influencing the handling of financial aid.

President Marcos Jr. stated that politicians will be barred from distributing any financial aid to ensure it reaches intended recipients without reduction or shortage.

He cited the urgency of reform and referenced the "painful" challenges of the previous year, particularly the corruption scandal that engulfed the Department of Public Works and Highways.

Executive Secretary Ralph Recto said the executive branch will issue guidelines governing the disbursement of financial aid under the new provision.

Government programs that provide cash aid and financial assistance to indigent Filipinos include the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations, Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Disadvantaged Workers, and Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program.

The social services sector is allocated P270 billion in the 2026 budget to enhance the quality of life and advance human capital development for Filipinos.