OSG files SC comment to dismiss 2025 GAA challenge

Government lawyers, through the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG), have filed an 89-page comment asking the Supreme Court to dismiss a petition challenging the constitutionality of the country's 2025 national budget.

The challenged document is Republic Act No. 12116 or the 7th tranche of the P6.325-trillion General Appropriations Act (GAA). Petitioners include lawyer Victor D. Rodriguez, Davao City Rep. Isidro T. Ungab, among others.

The OSG argues that the petition lacks an 'actual case or controversy' and procedural integrity, asserting that it does not present a genuine concern for constitutional integrity but appears to be an attempt to impede the implementation of a vital law.

Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra said petitioners failed to provide specific constitutional violations, and their claims are mere assertions without legal basis.

The OSG reiterated that only the signed national budget is binding, while Congress has faithfully exercised its mandate to appropriate public funds in strict accordance with the Constitution.