Recto says 2026 budget pork-free despite concerns

Executive Secretary Ralph Recto asserted that the P6.97 trillion national budget for 2026 is "pork-free," with the executive branch to strictly implement provisions prohibiting politicians from participating in the distribution of cash assistance programs.

Recto emphasized that legislators are prohibited from interfering in the budget's execution, which is solely an executive function.

This statement follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s signing of the budget and vetoing of approximately P92.5 billion in unprogrammed appropriations.

Despite assurances, some groups like the Makabayan bloc expressed concern that pork barrel might still exist through various forms, including "allocables," party-list allocations, "presidential pork," and "LGU pork."

Makabayan argued that current district allocations function similarly to the now-unconstitutional PDAF by providing equal amounts to district engineering offices, effectively benefiting lawmakers.