MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine government is preparing a ₱230-billion funding pool to address the economic and social repercussions of escalating tensions in the Middle East, budget officials disclosed on Tuesday.
According to Acting Budget Secretary Rolando Toledo, at least ₱210 billion has already been consolidated from existing government appropriations, including unused funds from the 2025 budget and allocations under this year’s national spending plan.
The total could increase further with a proposed ₱20 billion draw from the Malampaya energy fund, now under review by concerned agencies.
The identified funds will support key government programs, particularly those aimed at protecting vulnerable Filipinos. These include ₱63.8 billion for social welfare services, ₱4.2 billion for migrant worker assistance, and ₱1.2 billion for consular and legal aid for Filipinos abroad.
Authorities are also setting aside ₱2.5 billion for fuel subsidies to assist the transport sector amid rising oil prices.
In addition, existing government programs such as DOLE’s TUPAD, with over ₱21 billion, and the DOH’s indigent patient assistance program, with more than ₱51 billion, are expected to be tapped as part of the response.
On the legislative front, Senator Risa Hontiveros is pushing for a separate ₱52.8 billion supplemental budget. Her proposal seeks to provide targeted relief, including transportation and agricultural subsidies, as well as funding for the repatriation and reintegration of overseas Filipino workers affected by the crisis.
ia/xf
