Manila: The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has firmly denied allegations circulating on social media that the 2025 national budget has already been 'depleted.' The department clarified that early fund releases are a standard practice and do not indicate that public funds have already been expended.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DBM confirmed that over 80 percent of the national budget has indeed been released as of the first quarter of 2025, but emphasized that this is neither unusual nor improper. Historical data provided by the DBM showed similar release percentages in previous years, which supports the normalcy of the current year's fund distribution.

The DBM released the following historical data on budget releases during the first quarter of every year: 82.3% in 2016, 79.9% in 2017, 84.0% in 2018, 13.7% in 2019 due to a reenacted budget, 78.4% in 2020, 78.0% in 2021, 69.4% in 2022, 81.9% in 2023, 83.2% in 2024, and 80.7% in 2025. These figures illustrate the consistency in the pace of budget releases.

The DBM explained that timely fund releases are essential for the seamless delivery of public services and to foster economic growth. Delays in budget releases could result in postponed services that citizens expect to receive promptly.

Since its inception, the DBM has adhered to the "comprehensive release" of funds once the General Appropriations Act (GAA) is signed into law. These releases cover vital government functions such as salaries, ongoing projects, and calamity funds. However, the comprehensive release does not imply immediate expenditure, as released funds must still go through procurement processes and adhere to existing rules and regulations before disbursement.

Moreover, the DBM noted that over P797 billion in congressional amendments to the 2025 budget are classified under the 'For Issuance of SARO' (FISARO) category, meaning they are not automatically released. Agencies must meet documentation and approval requirements established by the DBM and the Office of the President, in accordance with the President's veto message and prevailing budget rules.

The DBM reiterated its commitment to the fair, transparent, and responsible use of public funds, asserting that historical data confirms the current year's fund release pace is within normal parameters.