Vice President Sara Duterte Reports 85.55% Budget Utilization for 2024

The Office of the Vice President (OVP) of the Philippines, led by Vice President Sara Duterte, announced that it has utilized 85.55% of its allocated budget of P2.084 billion for the fiscal year 2024. This figure, amounting to P1.783 billion, was reported as of December 31, 2024. The OVP's accomplishment report highlighted the effective implementation of various socio-economic programs and services as the primary reason for this high utilization rate.

The OVP's initiatives in 2024 reached 1,780,079 beneficiaries across multiple programs. The free bus ride initiative, known as the Libreng Sakay program, emerged as the most impactful, serving 1,025,275 individuals. Other notable programs included the PagbaBAGo campaign, which assisted 227,958 beneficiaries, and medical assistance programs that supported 154,565 people. Additionally, the OVP distributed Rice Food Bags to 144,808 beneficiaries, underscoring its commitment to social service and disaster relief efforts.

This announcement comes in the wake of significant budgetary cuts imposed by the House of Representatives, which reduced the OVP's proposed budget for 2025 from P2 billion to P733 million. This decision followed Vice President Duterte's reluctance to disclose details about the OVP's budget use, including allocations for confidential funds. Despite appeals from her allies, the Senate upheld this budget reduction, citing the need for fiscal responsibility and transparency.

Vice President Duterte expressed concern over the implications of the budget cuts, indicating that they could lead to the loss of approximately 200 OVP personnel and the halting of several ongoing projects. In response to the budgetary constraints, the OVP proposed an increase in its budget for fiscal year 2026, which was initially set at P733 million. Following discussions with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), the budget was incrementally raised to P803.6 million, ultimately reaching P903 million, reflecting the OVP's ongoing efforts to secure adequate funding for its programs.

Experts in public administration and fiscal policy have noted the importance of transparency in government budgeting processes. Dr. Michael Reyes, Professor of Public Administration at the University of the Philippines, stated, "Effective governance hinges on accountability and transparency, especially when public funds are involved. The OVP's ability to utilize its budget effectively is commendable, but it also raises questions about future funding stability and program sustainability."

The implications of this budget utilization extend beyond immediate service delivery; they reflect broader trends in governmental fiscal management in the Philippines. As the OVP continues to navigate budgetary challenges, the effectiveness of its programs will likely factor into future budget negotiations and public trust in the administration.

In conclusion, while the OVP's reported utilization of 85.55% signifies a successful year in terms of service delivery, it also highlights the critical need for ongoing dialogue between government entities and legislative bodies to ensure that essential programs are adequately funded and can continue to serve the public effectively. As the country approaches the upcoming budget discussions for 2025, these issues will remain at the forefront of national discourse, emphasizing the balance between fiscal responsibility and social welfare.