Manila: Malaca±ang on Wednesday stated that the government cannot fully eliminate unprogrammed appropriations (UA), emphasizing that these funds are crucial for emergencies and unforeseen expenses. This declaration came in response to Akbayan Party-list Rep. Chel Diokno's call for Congress to reduce the 2026 unprogrammed appropriations to zero, due to their increasing share in the proposed national budget.

According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro addressed the issue during a press briefing at Malaca±ang. She asserted that removing unprogrammed funds entirely is not feasible, as they play a vital role in supporting government programs during emergencies. Castro emphasized, however, that these funds are not spent indiscriminately and cannot be accessed without proper documentation.

Castro further explained that even though the funds fall under unprogrammed appropriations, their release is contingent upon complete documentation. She assured that all unprogrammed funds are closely monitored to ensure accountability and proper use.

Rep. Chel Diokno, in a privilege speech before the House of Representatives plenary, raised concerns about the expanding UA, describing it as obscuring several projects within the budget process. Unprogrammed appropriations are essentially standby funds in the national budget, only accessible when additional revenues or external financing become available during the fiscal year.

Unlike regular or 'programmed' appropriations, which have secured funding, UAs act as a financial safety net for unexpected expenses such as natural disasters, emergencies, or priority projects requiring immediate funding. The release of these funds is governed by strict conditions, including certification from the Department of Finance that sufficient excess revenue or funding sources are available to cover the expenditures.