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Philippines
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Catholic schools hail livestreamed bicameral budget talks, back record education funding, but flag governance risks
Philippines
National
Catholic schools hail livestreamed bicameral budget talks, back record education funding, but flag governance risks
Catholic schools hail livestreamed bicameral budget talks, back record education funding, but flag governance risks
Published Dec 16, 2025 08:25 pm
The Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) on Tuesday, December 16, welcomed the historic livestreaming of the bicameral budget deliberations, saying the move marks a significant step toward greater transparency and public participation in the national budget process.
In a statement, CEAP said the livestream allows Filipinos, for the first time, to directly witness how difficult trade-offs, compromises, and priorities shape public spending, including which issues are addressed or sidelined in the final stages of budget approval.
CEAP backs record education funding and budget transparency but warns of governance risks as bicameral budget talks go public. (CEAP)
CEAP also lauded the government’s decision to allocate the largest education budget in Philippine history, calling it a clear signal of the state’s commitment to long-term human development.
The group likewise welcomed renewed funding support for Project NOAH, noting its importance to scientific integrity, disaster preparedness, and the protection of life.
“We affirm the prioritization of education through the largest education budget in history and the renewed support for Project NOAH, both of which signal a commitment to long-term human development, scientific integrity, and the protection of life,” CEAP said.
Governance gaps exposed
However, the education group stressed that the livestreamed deliberations also exposed persistent weaknesses in governance that lawmakers must urgently address.
CEAP pointed to the realignment of funds across agencies without fully confronting systemic risks, as well as the continued reliance on patronage-based mechanisms such as medical assistance coursed through guarantee letters.
The association noted that these practices reveal how public resources can still be subject to political discretion rather than anchored in rights-based and accountable systems.
CEAP acknowledged the need for immediate assistance to vulnerable sectors but warned that charity mediated through political favor cannot replace strong public institutions.
“While immediate assistance to the poor is necessary, charity mediated by political favor cannot replace strong public institutions that deliver healthcare, infrastructure, and social protection as a matter of justice,” CEAP said.
Call to protect institutional funding
As bicameral deliberations continue, CEAP urged legislators to safeguard budget allocations that directly strengthen public institutions and ensure that essential services are delivered equitably and sustainably.
The group emphasized that while emergency aid remains important, lasting social protection is best achieved through transparent, rights-based systems that reduce dependence on discretionary mechanisms and uphold accountability in the use of public funds.
Budget as a ‘moral document’
CEAP also called on lawmakers and implementing agencies to uphold transparency, evidence-based planning, and ethical stewardship as they finalize national spending priorities.
Beyond government, the association appealed to schools and universities to help form socially aware learners who understand the public budget as more than a financial plan.
“We likewise call on educational institutions to help form socially aware learners who understand the public budget as a moral document and who are prepared to engage constructively in democratic life,” CEAP said.
The group further encouraged civil society, the private sector, and citizens to remain vigilant and engaged throughout the budget process, stressing that “meaningful participation includes informed vigilance as decisions are being made.”