Manila: The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has refuted claims circulating on social media that the 2025 national budget has been 'depleted.' The agency clarified that early fund releases are a standard procedure and do not imply that public funds have already been exhausted.

According to Philippines News Agency, more than 80 percent of the national budget has been released as of the first quarter of 2025. However, the DBM emphasized that this practice is neither unusual nor improper. Historical data provided by the DBM shows a consistent pattern of budget releases during the first quarter over the past several years, with figures ranging from 78 percent to over 84 percent, except in 2019 when a reenacted budget resulted in a lower percentage.

The DBM explained that timely fund releases are crucial for the uninterrupted delivery of public services and to support economic growth. DBM Undersecretary and Spokesperson Goddess Hope Libiran highlighted the potential negative impact of delays, stating that any hold-up in budget releases also means a delay in the services that people should be receiving.

Since its inception, the DBM has adhered to a policy of "comprehensive release" of funds once the General Appropriations Act (GAA) is enacted. These releases cover essential government functions, including salaries, ongoing projects, and calamity funds. However, comprehensive release does not equate to automatic spending. The agency stressed that released funds are still subject to procurement processes and must comply with existing rules and regulations before disbursement.

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

The DBM reaffirmed its commitment to a fair, transparent, and responsible use of public funds, asserting that the current pace of fund releases is within the normal range as confirmed by historical data. Libiran reiterated the agency's mandate to ensure the fair, prudent, open, and accountable allocation and use of public funds, underscoring the importance of timely budget releases as part of this mandate.