President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has accused those challenging the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA) in the Supreme Court of attempting to destabilize the government. Speaking in Lapu-Lapu City, Marcos expressed that there is no backup plan should the court rule against the budget, suggesting that such a ruling would effectively halt government operations, which he believes is the goal of the challengers.
Marcos indicated that Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra would defend the government’s position on the constitutionality of the 2025 budget. He expressed confidence in the government’s legal stance, dismissing the petitioners’ claims as baseless and difficult to uphold.
The petition against the 2025 GAA was filed by Davao City 3rd District Representative Isidro Ungab, former executive secretary Vic Rodriguez, and other former officials. They argue that certain ‘blank items’ in the budget’s bicameral report compromise transparency and accountability.
Solicitor General Guevarra, tasked with representing the government, affirmed that he would argue the case if required, maintaining that the 2025 GAA is presumed valid, regular, and constitutional until ruled otherwise.