Rodriguez, Ungab file SC petition on 2025 budget

Former executive secretary Vic Rodriguez and Davao City 3rd District Representative Isidro Ungab filed a petition before the Supreme Court last Monday challenging the constitutionality of the 2025 national budget due to alleged irregularities.

Rodriguez argues that the budget violates constitutional provisions related to health care, government operations, education funding, and bill presentation requirements, pointing out several blanks in the bicameral conference committee report for agencies such as the National Irrigation Administration (NIA), Department of Agriculture, and Philippine Coconut Authority.

The petition specifically highlights that the 15-page signed budget law allocates no funds to PhilHealth and deviates from the Universal Health Care Act's goals by not allocating excess funds for member contributions or benefits.

House Committee on Appropriations Vice Chairperson Zia Alonto Adiong criticized the move, saying it is 'tantamount to hostaging the budget' and could lead to a reenacted budget with higher demands and fewer government programs in 2025.

Solicitor General Menardo I. Guevarra stated that a response will be issued once directed by the Supreme Court, while House appropriations panel chairperson Stella Quimbo maintains that ratification of a corrected bicameral report is unnecessary.