Lapu-Lapu City: The move to challenge the constitutionality of the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA) before the Supreme Court (SC) is a deliberate attempt to destabilize the government, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said Thursday. This statement comes amidst concerns about the potential impact on government operations if the SC rules in favor of the petition challenging the budget.

According to Philippines News Agency, President Marcos acknowledged the absence of a contingency plan should the court deem the 2025 budget unconstitutional. He remarked that such a ruling would effectively halt government functions, which he believes is the objective of those behind the petition. Addressing reporters in Lapu-Lapu City, Marcos emphasized the government’s confidence in the budget’s constitutionality.

Marcos revealed that Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra would represent the government in responding to the legal challenge. Guevarra assured the President that the administration’s position on the budget is constitutionally sound. Marcos expressed puzzlement over the petitioners’ decision to file the case, describing their assertions as difficult to support, and reiterated his confidence in the government’s legal standing.

The petition was filed by Davao City 3rd Rep. Isidro Ungab, former executive secretary Vic Rodriguez, and other former officials. They contest the constitutionality of certain provisions in the 2025 GAA, specifically citing ‘blank items’ in the bicameral report that they argue compromise transparency and accountability in the budget process.

Guevarra, tasked with defending the government’s position, stated that he is prepared to present arguments before the SC if required. Meanwhile, he maintained that the 2025 GAA is presumed to be valid, regular, and constitutional until proven otherwise.