ACT Teachers Party-list Rep. France Castro insisted that the proposed budget slash of the Office of the Vice President from P2.037 billion to P733.198 million for 2025 should go to education and other essential services.

This decision comes amidst ongoing discussions and negotiations on the national budget for the upcoming fiscal year.

“The OVP budget cut also considered the personnel of the OVP, their benefits, and other necessary expenditures which is why it is still substantial. However, it is clear that the socio-economic fund, which VP Sara Duterte failed to properly account for and justify, should be the focus of the cut,” she stated.

Castro emphasized the importance of prioritizing funds for essential government services, particularly in education and other critical sectors so the slashed funds should go to these departments.

Furthermore, Rep. Castro proposed that the P10 million budget for the book ‘Isang Kaibigan’ be transferred to the Department of Education to support educational initiatives.

“Reallocating these funds to DepEd will better serve our students and educators, ensuring that resources are directed towards enhancing our educational system,” Castro added.

The reduction in the OVP’s budget aims to reallocate funds to other priority areas within the government.

Castro highlighted that this move is crucial in addressing the pressing needs of the Filipino people, especially in sectors that directly impact their daily lives.

“We must ensure that every peso in the national budget is spent wisely and effectively. By redirecting funds to where they are most needed, we can provide better services and support to our citizens,” Castro further said.