The Department of Budget and Management has branded as “malicious and irresponsible” the allegations that the Fiscal Year 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA) signed by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos, Jr. contains blank pages or figures.
“These allegations are completely false and reckless,” the DBM said in a statement.
According to the DBM, “what has been presented by certain misinformed individuals are pages from the Bicameral Conference (Bicam) Committee Report, and NOT the General Appropriations Bill (GAB) nor the GAA.”
The DBM said it is important to note that, under the 1987 Constitution, it is the Bill— the GAB, and NOT the Bicam Report, that is officially submitted for the consideration, and approval or veto of the President.
“It is the GAB, with all its details, that is controlling, and is presented to the President. Once signed, the GAB becomes the Law— the GAA,” the DBM clarified.
To reiterate, the DBM noted that the Bill presented to and signed by the President is a complete document, with no blank pages or missing details.
“In no case does the Executive issue a GAA with blank pages or figures,” the agency stated.
The DBM is urging Filipinos to be mindful, cautious, and to first verify information before making any allegations. Clear and accurate understanding is critical for constructive dialogue, it added.
“We kindly appeal to our kababayans to avoid spreading false information; communication is a powerful tool that can make or break a nation. Let us use it to promote unity and understanding, and not to sow discord, hatred, and division. After all, we are one nation,” the DBM said.
