MANILA, Philippines — President Aquino III submits to Congress his proposed P1.816-trillion national budget for next year, following his State of the Nation Address (SoNA).

A healthy arrangement: Malacañang proposes, Congress disposes.

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Budget Secretary Florencio Abad says that with the early submission, there is a “great chance” the 2012 budget will be approved early, as assured by leaders of the House of Representatives.

Early bird catches the worm — and possibly a bigger one for being friendly. He-he.

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Abad adds that the President wants the budget passed on time to avoid delays in the implementation of vital programs and projects.

P-Noy has promises to keep. And deadline to beat.

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The budget chief explains that the proposed national budget for 2012 is higher by P171 billion or 10.4 percent than this year’s R1.645-trillion budget.

As usual, more fund mean more fun.

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Abad says that the higher budget is based on a conservative growth assumption of 5.5 percent although the administration still eyes a 7-8 percent growth.

The higher the budget for socio- economic growth, the better for Pinoys.

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The proposed budget is a “result–focused budget “which aims to fulfill President Aquino’s “social contract” with the people, Abad assures.

Focus on results would prove good for P-Noy.

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Malacañang says that the priority programs under the proposed budget are anti-corruption and good governance, poverty reduction, economic growth, peace initiatives, the rule of law, and environmental protection.

Correct priorities plus “daang matuwid” will prove good for the country.

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“We have scaled up funding for programs and projects that would lead to direct, immediate, and substantial benefits to the poor… we have scaled down funding for activities which have been ineffective and prone to corruption” Abad points out.

Yes to proper budgetary control.

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The bulk of the budget will go to DepEd (P238.8 billion),  DPWH (P125.5 billion), DND (P107.9 billion), DoA (P54.1 billion), DSWD (P49.4 billion) DoH (P43.4 billion), DoTC (P34.6), and DoF (P23.1 billion).

Wise and prudent use of public funds, please!