CHYREL MACALE CARIAGA
JOURNALIST/COLUMNIST
The signing of the General Appropriations Act (GAA) by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. (BBM) has triggered an intense cry screaming for a deep scrutiny. While narratives may vary regarding the implications and motivations behind these financial decisions, the facts remain clear: BBM approved a staggering P1.022 trillion in congressional insertions for the fiscal years 2023, 2024, and 2025. My opinion on this issue will outline the significance of these insertions amid concerning budget allocations for crucial infrastructure projects and health programs.The President forming an independent commission in investigati ng the anomalies will lead the blame back to the executive branch.Him approving ang signing these allocations.
The inclusion of over P1 trillion in congressional insertions signifies a true revelation about fiscal responsibility and prioritization in governance. Insertions are often seen as political maneuvering to appease various stakeholders; however, this practice can lead to misallocation of funds that should ideally support essential public services. The fact that such a substantial amount was signed off reflects a willingness to engage in questionable budgeting practices.
In contrary to these massive insertions is the alarming zero budget allocated for critical infrastructure projects in 2024. Infrastructure development is vital for economic growth and improving quality of life; thus, neglecting this area could have dire long-term consequences. The decision not to fund important projects while approving significant congressional insertions raises serious concerns about priorities within this administration.
Additionally, with no allocation for PhilHealth subsidies included in the budget, there is an evident disregard for healthcare needs amidst ongoing public health challenges. The lack of funding for healthcare can exacerbate existing issues within the system, leaving vulnerable populations without necessary support during critical times. This oversight further highlights potential mismanagement under BBM’s leadership.
The approval of over P1 trillion in congressional insertions by BBM cannot be overlooked or justified when juxtaposed with low funding for essential infrastructure projects and healthcare subsidies but ghost projects are now the result of this on going corruptions leaving the people grappling what has become of this country. While narratives may attempt to spin these actions positively, they ultimately reflect a troubling pattern in governance where political interests overshadow critical national needs. As citizens demand accountability from their leaders, it becomes imperative to scrutinize how taxpayer money is allocated and spent.I have been told in my bravery in sighting strongly in my opinions regarding the government but that doesnt leave the fact that no Filipino is pleased one way or another denies the truth about how we are blatantly rob by these people in power,understanding and realizing that only the President of this country can allow this to happen,raping our taxes to the point of filling their own banks disregarding the very core of how this nation should put the needs of the people first and why they are on ther positions right now.But failure after failure every year they got a fill of wealth,meanwhile filipinos plows to survive to pay taxes and still remain poor while they become more powerful and mum to the Nations outcry for justice and accountabiity.God hep the Philippines.
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