Government nearly triples ARMM budget to P29.4 B in 2016

MANILA, Philippines - The government has increased its budget for fostering lasting peace in conflict-prone areas in the country, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) said.

Investments in improving governance and delivering social services for the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) were hiked to P29.4 billion for 2016 from only P10.4 billion in 2010.

These funds would be allocated to different social services and the construction of various infrastructure such as roads and water facilities.

DBM data showed P25.1 billion had been earmarked for socio-economic programs and projects for the region next year. 

Both allocations would be on top of the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) program, which is intended to bring basic services in conflict areas. The PAMANA budget was more than doubled to P12.8 billion next year from P5.5 billion this year.

The funds are part of the proposed 2016 national budget of P3.002 trillion, which was submitted by Pres. Aquino to Congress last month.

“Our investments since 2010 have so far made an impact in improving life expectancy, family income, and other human outcomes in the violence-torn region,” Pres. Aquino said in his budget message.

“The proposed allocations for 2016 should enable the future Bangsamoro Autonomous Region to establish a regime of peace, democracy, and meaningful development,” he added.

In support of reinforcing an environment for peace, Aquino said the proposed 2016 budget has also set aside P25 billion for the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines modernization program. This is in addition to the P78.9 billion already allocated for territorial defense, security, and stability services of the army, navy, and air force.

At the same time, the government has allocated P88.3 billion for modernization programs of the Philippine National Police.

About P26.7 billion has also been allotted for the Judiciary’s budget next year. The increase in the Judiciary’s resources is expected to reduce the backlog and fast-track the resolution of cases.