Senator Imee Marcos has made a public appeal to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., urging him to reconsider and restore the budget cuts affecting crucial programs such as the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) managed by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). During a radio interview, Senator Marcos emphasized the importance of a detailed review of the budget, suggesting a line-by-line examination to ensure that essential services are not defunded. She expressed particular concern over the complete elimination of funding for PhilHealth and flood control initiatives, stating that such drastic measures should be avoided.
Senator Marcos, who did not sign the bicameral conference committee report on the 2025 General Appropriations Bill, highlighted the significant PHP50-billion cut to the 4Ps budget. She argued that once the budget is allocated, it should remain untouched, pointing out that any interference by the legislature with certain departments could be seen as unconstitutional and against public interest. She suggested that her brother, the President, should personally review these issues.
Additionally, Senator Marcos addressed the Ayuda para sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP), clarifying that she is not opposed to it but stressed the need for clear justification for its funding and implementation. She questioned whether AKAP might duplicate existing DSWD programs like the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS). The DSWD has clarified that AKAP and AICS serve different groups, with AICS aimed at providing immediate financial aid to those in crisis, while AKAP targets low-income individuals affected by inflation and not covered by regular poverty alleviation programs.