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Advocates Philippines
Bong Go Presses Gov't Act Fast On Fuel Aid If Funds Can Be Moved
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Senator Bong Go is raising a pointed question to government economic managers: if billions can be moved around in the national budget, why is fuel relief taking so long?
The challenge comes as the Supreme Court of the Philippines continues oral arguments on the legality of unprogrammed appropriations in the 2024–2026 budgets. The case follows a landmark ruling last December that declared the transfer of ₱60 billion in PhilHealth funds unconstitutional.
For Go, the ongoing hearings highlight what he called the government’s ability to perform “financial gymnastics” when needed—but not when it comes to easing the burden of rising fuel costs on ordinary Filipinos.
He pointed out that while lawyers debate complex budget rules in the High Court, drivers and commuters are asking a much simpler question: if the government found a way to reallocate massive funds before, why does fuel assistance now seem stuck due to a lack of money?
The senator argued that if “excess funds” can be redirected to unprogrammed projects, then those same resources should be prioritized for sectors hardest hit by the global oil crisis. He stressed that public funds should go to services that people actually feel, especially during times of crisis.
At the same time, Go made it clear that funds from PhilHealth should not be touched again to bankroll fuel subsidies, emphasizing the need to protect resources meant for healthcare.
Serving as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, Go also framed the Supreme Court case as more than just a legal debate. For him, it directly affects the “sikmura” or daily survival of Filipinos, especially as rising fuel prices continue to drive up the cost of living.
He warned that past budget decisions—like the fund transfer and earlier proposals that would have reduced PhilHealth’s budget—reflect a pattern that could disadvantage the poor.
Go ended with a firm stance: any funds recovered or reclassified should be redirected to their original purpose—helping the public, particularly the most vulnerable.
In his words, the issue isn’t just about technicalities—it’s about accountability and making sure no Filipino is left behind.
The challenge comes as the Supreme Court of the Philippines continues oral arguments on the legality of unprogrammed appropriations in the 2024–2026 budgets. The case follows a landmark ruling last December that declared the transfer of ₱60 billion in PhilHealth funds unconstitutional.
For Go, the ongoing hearings highlight what he called the government’s ability to perform “financial gymnastics” when needed—but not when it comes to easing the burden of rising fuel costs on ordinary Filipinos.
He pointed out that while lawyers debate complex budget rules in the High Court, drivers and commuters are asking a much simpler question: if the government found a way to reallocate massive funds before, why does fuel assistance now seem stuck due to a lack of money?
The senator argued that if “excess funds” can be redirected to unprogrammed projects, then those same resources should be prioritized for sectors hardest hit by the global oil crisis. He stressed that public funds should go to services that people actually feel, especially during times of crisis.
At the same time, Go made it clear that funds from PhilHealth should not be touched again to bankroll fuel subsidies, emphasizing the need to protect resources meant for healthcare.
Serving as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, Go also framed the Supreme Court case as more than just a legal debate. For him, it directly affects the “sikmura” or daily survival of Filipinos, especially as rising fuel prices continue to drive up the cost of living.
He warned that past budget decisions—like the fund transfer and earlier proposals that would have reduced PhilHealth’s budget—reflect a pattern that could disadvantage the poor.
Go ended with a firm stance: any funds recovered or reclassified should be redirected to their original purpose—helping the public, particularly the most vulnerable.
In his words, the issue isn’t just about technicalities—it’s about accountability and making sure no Filipino is left behind.
Apr 22, 2026
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