DBM denies national budget depletion claims

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has denied claims circulating on social media that the 2025 national budget has already been 'depleted,' clarifying that early fund releases are standard practice.

As of March 31, DBM had released 80.7% of the national budget to government agencies, which aligns with historical release rates from previous years.

DBM Undersecretary and Spokesperson Goddes Hope Libiran explained in a video statement that comprehensive releases occur once the budget is signed by the president, covering fixed government programs such as salaries and operational requirements.

Libiran emphasized that just because the budget has been comprehensively released does not mean it is being depleted or spent; much of it remains classified for later release pending a Special Allotment Release Order (SARO).

The timely release of funds is crucial for uninterrupted delivery of public services and to support economic growth, according to Libiran.