DBM 62.6% of national budget already released

DBM Achieves Major Milestone in 2026 National Budget Disbursement

As we enter a new year, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has reached a significant milestone in the disbursement of the national budget for 2026. As of end-January, an impressive 62.6% of the P6.793-trillion budget has been released, indicating a strong start to the year.

Key Statistics

To put this achievement into perspective, let's examine some key statistics. As of end-January, P4.25 trillion has been disbursed, accounting for 62.6% of the annual budget. This represents a slight decline from January 2025's 64.9% disbursement rate. Approximately P2.54 trillion remained undistributed as of end-January, according to DBM.

Government Agencies and Departments A Significant Recipient

Of the total funds disbursed, P2.8 trillion, or 74.9% of the adjusted program, went to government agencies and departments. This highlights the government's commitment to supporting its various programs and initiatives.

Special Purpose Funds A Boost for Priority Projects

Special Purpose funds received P121.92 billion, which accounts for 16.9% of the adjusted program budget. Automatic Appropriation releases were P1.37 trillion, making up 57.3% of the adjusted program budget.

Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) Targets A Key Indicator of Success

The DBCC has set a disbursement goal of P6.43 trillion for this year, which is 21.1% of the country's gross domestic product (GDP). This ambitious target demonstrates the government's commitment to stimulating economic growth and development.

Lessons from the Past A Shift in Government Spending

Government spending has declined in the last semester of 2025 following a massive corruption scandal in infrastructure projects. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, government spending dropped 3.7% in the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2025 from 5.8% in the previous quarter.

Capital Formation A Key Indicator of Economic Health

Capital formation continued to contract by 10.9% in Q4, from -2.8% in the previous quarter. In 2025, it contracted further to 2.1% from the 7.7% growth in 2024. This trend highlights the need for innovative solutions to stimulate economic growth.

Budget Secretary Rolando Toledo A Commitment to Transparency and Accountability

In a statement, Budget Secretary Rolando Toledo emphasized that the 2026 national budget has no ghost projects, ensuring that infrastructure programs will proceed without delays or disruptions. This commitment to transparency and accountability is crucial in building trust with stakeholders and driving economic growth.

Infrastructure Spending A Key Area of Focus

The government aims to hit an infrastructure spending target of 4.3% of GDP, or P1.3 trillion based on the General Appropriations Act. This significant investment will have a positive impact on the economy, creating jobs and stimulating growth.

Culminating Efforts The Road Ahead

As we look ahead to the remainder of the year, it is essential that the government continues to prioritize transparency, accountability, and innovative solutions. By doing so, we can ensure that our national budget culminates in meaningful outcomes for the country's economic development.

Key Takeaways

62.6% of the 2026 national budget has been released as of end-January.
P4.25 trillion has been disbursed, accounting for 62.6% of the annual budget.
Government agencies and departments received P2.8 trillion, or 74.9% of the adjusted program.
Special Purpose funds got P121.92 billion, while Automatic Appropriation releases were P1.37 trillion.

References

Department of Budget and Management (DBM). (2026). Status of Allotment Releases as of end-January.
Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). (2025). Quarterly National Accounts Fourth Quarter 2025.
General Appropriations Act (GAA).

Conclusion

As we navigate the complexities of budgeting and economic development, it is essential that we prioritize transparency, accountability, and innovative solutions. The DBM's impressive disbursement rate is a testament to the government's commitment to driving growth and development. By building on this momentum, we can create a brighter future for our country.

Keyword Optimization

DBM
National budget
Disbursement rate
Government spending
Infrastructure development
Economic growth
Transparency and accountability

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.