Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has approved a proposed PHP6.793-trillion budget for the year 2026, as announced by Malaca±ang. The budget is designed to prioritize economic growth alongside improving the quality of life for Filipinos.

According to Philippines News Agency, the approval came during a Cabinet meeting held in Malaca±ang, where Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated that the President underscored the need for the 2026 budget to align with his administration's goals. These goals focus on fostering a more progressive and inclusive Philippines that ensures the welfare of all citizens and future generations.

Castro highlighted President Marcos' emphasis on education and the overall well-being of Filipinos as part of the administration's vision for a "Bagong Pilipinas" or "New Philippines." She relayed the President's sentiment that the welfare and future of the people are essential in building a more progressive nation.

The National Expenditure Program (NEP) is the government's proposed spending plan for the upcoming fiscal year and serves as the foundation for Congress in crafting the General Appropriations Bill. Once this bill is signed into law by the President, it becomes the General Appropriations Act. As per the Constitution, the NEP must be submitted to Congress within 30 days following the President's State of the Nation Address (SONA).

President Marcos is scheduled to deliver his fourth SONA on July 28 before a joint session of Congress. The proposed budget, which is the largest in the country's history, is anticipated to support crucial programs in various sectors, including education, infrastructure, digitalization, health, and social services.