The proposed P7.2-trillion national budget for next year represents a prudent and forward-looking investment aimed at sustaining the country's economic growth, President Marcos said.

In his budget message, Marcos said the proposed 2027 National Expenditure Program (NEP), which was submitted to the House of Representatives on Tuesday, Aug. 11, "is more than a strategic investment."

"More than a financial plan, it is a strategic investment in the Filipino people and in our country's future," Marcos said in his message.

"It translates our priorities into concrete action, ensuring that every public resource contributes to stronger institutions, greater economic opportunities, and a better quality of life for every Filipino," he added.

Stressing that the proposed budget underwent a thorough review, Marcos said that from the P11.690 trillion in funding proposals submitted by government agencies, they have carefully determined the programs and projects that will deliver the greatest impact for the people and for national development priorities.

"The proposed Php 7.200 trillion FY 2027 National Budget represents a prudent and forward-looking investment that sustains economic growth while remaining firmly consistent with our fiscal consolidation agenda," Marcos said.

He said he has directed all agencies to focus on measurable outcomes, align their proposals with the country's development agenda, eliminate unnecessary or inefficient expenditures, and ensure that every peso produces meaningful and lasting value.

He assured that these investments remain firmly anchored on the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028 and the Ambisyon Natin 2040.

"This budget strengthens our capacity to invest in strategic infrastructure, human capital, food and energy security, and social protection, while reinforcing transparency, accountability, and the efficient use of public resources," he said.

According to the Chief Executive, the 2027 NEP seeks to modernize public institutions, improve productivity, strengthen competitiveness, attract greater investments, create quality jobs, and enhance the government's ability to deliver faster, more responsive, and citizen-centered public services.

"What distinguishes this expenditure program is its deliberate focus on transformative reforms that will shape the country's long-term development trajectory," he said.

"By emphasizing measurable outcomes, institutional reforms, and long-term value creation, the proposed FY 2027 National Budget serves as a catalyst for sustainable and inclusive national development," he added.

Marcos emphasized that the proposed budget "recognizes that genuine progress is measured not only through stronger economic indicators, but through the lives we improve-families with greater opportunities, workers with more secure livelihoods, farmers and fisherfolk with stronger support, students with better education, healthier communities, safer neighborhoods, and a government that consistently earns the trust and confidence of its people."

The proposed budget, he added, reaffirms the administration's commitment to inclusive growth, sound fiscal management, good governance, and responsible stewardship of public resources.

"Together, let us ensure that every peso entrusted to government creates meaningful results today while laying the foundation for a stronger, more resilient, and more prosperous Philippines for generations to come," he said.

The House of Representatives formally received the proposed 2027 NEP from Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Acting Secretary Kim Robert de Leon in a simple turnover ceremony on Tuesday.