Manila: Malaca±ang on Tuesday warned that many government projects could face delays if the proposed 2026 national budget is not approved on time. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro emphasized that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. does not want a reenacted budget, stressing the importance of making all necessary efforts to avoid delays.

According to Philippines News Agency, Castro highlighted during a Palace press briefing that everyone, including Congress, is aware of the President’s stance against a reenacted budget. Castro stated, “Alam po ng lahat, lahat po tayo pati po ang Kongreso, ayaw po ng Pangulo ang isang reenacted budget. Sa panahong natitira, alam natin na lahat ng kakayanan ay dapat gawin para hindi mauwi sa isang budget na reenacted budget.” This underscores the need for concerted efforts to ensure the timely approval of the budget.

Citing concerns from the Department of Finance, Castro indicated that numerous projects could be delayed if Congress fails to pass the spending plan for the upcoming year. The Senate had postponed the bicameral conference on the 2026 budget on Monday due to unresolved issues involving the Department of Public Works and Highways. Despite this postponement, the House of Representatives remains optimistic that the delay will not lead to a reenacted budget.

When questioned about whether President Marcos has communicated with House and Senate leaders to prevent a reenacted budget, Castro mentioned that no information has been provided on such discussions. A reenacted budget occurs when the previous year’s budget continues to be implemented because the new budget has not been approved, potentially causing delays in government programs and projects, especially those requiring new funding allocations.