Marcos Jr. urges transparent budget talks, rejects inconsistent plans

In his fourth State of the Nation Address, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. warned that his government will not approve a budget proposal inconsistent with his administration's programs.

The President’s statement reinforced calls for open bicameral conference committee deliberations, supported by over 100 groups advocating for transparent budget discussions.

On August 13, the Department of Budget and Management submitted the proposed National Expenditure Program for 2026 to the House of Representatives, initiating the legislative budget process.

Congressional committees are currently holding hearings on various agencies' and offices' proposed budgets as part of this process.

The President’s preference for a reenacted budget over an unaligned proposal highlights his commitment to fiscal transparency and alignment with his administration's goals.