Context.ph

The Department of Budget and Management will submit the proposed P7.2-trillion 2027 National Expenditure Program to the House of Representatives on Tuesday, marking an increase from this year’s P6.793-trillion national budget. Palace spokesperson Atty. Claire Castro said the NEP, which the DBM formally turned over to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday, prioritizes education, health, livelihood, security, and stronger communities under the theme “people-centered growth for an inclusive and resilient future.” Castro said the spending plan seeks to improve public services while creating more jobs and economic opportunities for Filipinos. The proposal now moves to Congress for scrutiny and approval.

Ayala Land Inc. is raising its 2026 capital spending plan to P60 billion from P50 billion, signaling stronger confidence in its project pipeline even as residential demand remains selective.

More than 38,000 customers of the Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) remained without electricity Monday morning, as the enhanced southwest monsoon and Tropical Cyclones Luis and Maymay continued to disrupt services and cause widespread damage.

The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry is pressing the government to quickly issue a Joint Administrative Order aimed at curbing soaring logistics costs and easing port congestion, warning that delays could further squeeze businesses and consumers as cargo volumes rise later this year.

The House of Representatives has approved a resolution commending the long-standing bilateral relations between the Philippines and Japan, marking the 70th anniversary of the normalization of their diplomatic ties.