Manila: The PHP6.793-trillion 2026 national budget, which includes certain vetoed items as the government aims to tighten controls on discretionary spending, is designed to ensure sustained growth of the domestic economy, an economic official announced Monday. Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan stated that this year's national budget, signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. earlier in the day, is a significant milestone that removes uncertainty and affirms the country's development agenda.

According to Philippines News Agency, Balisacan emphasized that the 2026 National Budget serves as more than just a financial document. It acts as a strategic roadmap to safeguard economic recovery and maintain progress towards long-term development goals as outlined in the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028. Despite necessary realignments, he assured that the approved budget remains fully capable of delivering economic and social objectives by prioritizing strategic investments in education, health, agriculture, social protection, and job creation.

The budget supports updated GDP growth assumptions of 5 to 6 percent, reflecting both global and domestic challenges. While this year's growth outlook is slightly scaled down from earlier targets, it is expected to be more inclusive. Balisacan highlighted that the budget is structured to enhance human development, strengthen food security, and expand job creation, ensuring that growth is robust and widely shared.

He further noted that greater inclusivity lays the foundation for stronger and more sustainable economic performance in the medium to long term. This approach reinforces the commitment to transparency, accountability, and prudent fiscal stewardship. Balisacan concluded by stating that through stronger program convergence and better coordination across agencies, the government is ensuring that every peso spent delivers measurable impact and tangible improvements in people's lives.