Economist and former National Economic and Development Authority chief, Winnie Monsod, has raised concerns over the increasing use of unprogrammed appropriations in the 2024 to 2026 national budgets. She warned that this practice weakens transparency, accountability, and fiscal discipline. Speaking before the Supreme Court as an amicus curiae, Monsod likened these funds to the pork barrel system struck down by the Court, highlighting the dangers they pose to governance.
Unprogrammed appropriations are designed to be contingency funds, released only under specific fiscal conditions. However, Monsod pointed out that these funds are increasingly used outside the standard budget process, bypassing necessary scrutiny. “At the heart of this matter is the abuse of legislative and executive power for private gain,” she said. This practice diverts essential resources from public services like healthcare, education, and social welfare for the poor.
Monsod described this system as “Robin Hood in reverse,” where funds meant for the public good are lost to inefficiency and political manipulation. She emphasized that such practices contribute to wasted taxpayer money and rising national debt. “In the meantime, the Filipino people are robbed, not only at present but in the future,” she stated.
Monsod also linked this misuse of funds to unmet national development goals, such as poverty reduction and educational reform. She pointed out that the rapid expansion of unprogrammed appropriations since 2022 has worsened these inefficiencies. “If the budget fails, the plan fails,” Monsod stressed.
With the Supreme Court set to continue hearings on April 21, Monsod urges a more transparent and accountable approach to budgeting, stressing that the future of the Filipino people depends on it.
