October 21, 2025 | Manila, Philippines – House Committee on Appropriations Chairperson Rep. Mikaela Suansing clarified that the unprogrammed appropriations (UA) included in the proposed P6.793-trillion national budget will not be allocated for flood control projects.
According to Suansing, “No funds from the Strengthen Assistance for Social Programs (SASP) will be used for flood control projects, roads, or bridges.”
The SASP, which has a proposed allocation of P45 billion, is one of 11 purposes under the UA outlined in the 2026 General Appropriations Bill (GAB). It was created to support various government programs.
Suansing explained that the UA, which totals P243.2 billion, was a key factor in why 12 lawmakers opposed the third reading of the 2026 GAB on October 13. Despite the objections, the bill was ultimately approved with 287 votes in favor.
The lawmaker also clarified that UAs are “stand-by appropriations” approved by Congress under the General Appropriations Act (GAA) but are not yet active funds. Their release depends on available government resources or loans.
Suansing rejected reports claiming that the UA consists of lump-sum funds, noting that each UA allocation has specific program lines and objectives.
Compared to the UA under the 2025 GAA, the UA for the 2026 GAB is P120.2 billion lower.