28-9-2023 (MANILA) The lower chamber of the Philippines’ congress has given its approval to the proposed national budget for 2024, amounting to 5.768 trillion pesos (approximately $101.3 billion). This budget includes increased funding for security efforts in the South China Sea, a move reflecting the ongoing tensions in the region.
The 2024 budget proposal, put forth by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration, was approved late on Wednesday. It represents a 9.5% increase from this year’s budget, which stood at 5.267 trillion pesos. It’s worth noting that the Senate, which is set to adjourn between September 30 and November 5, has yet to pass its version of the budget bill.
One significant aspect of the approved budget is the reallocation of 650 million pesos from proposed “confidential and intelligence funds” towards enhancing the surveillance capabilities of the coastguard and the fisheries bureau in the South China Sea. This move comes at a time when tensions between Manila and Beijing have escalated due to incidents in the disputed Scarborough Shoal, where China installed a floating barrier that was later removed by the Philippine coastguard. China has contested the Philippine account of the events.
In addition to funding support for the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency and National Security Council, there will be an increase in the reallocated portion of the budget. The funds were originally allotted for non-security departments, including the Vice President’s office and the education ministry. Vice President Sara Duterte, who also serves as the education minister and is the daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte, faced criticism for her office’s request for intelligence funds, which raised concerns about transparency in spending.
House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez emphasized that agencies must adhere to strict accounting and auditing regulations governing the handling and release of such funds. He stated, “The House was able to assess and evaluate the nature and use of these funds and correct any mix-ups and allay public concerns regarding this issue.”
