Budget Release Issue Sparks Discontent Among NUP Members in Congress

NUP Leaders Weigh Exit from House Majority Over Delayed Budget Releases

MANILA, Philippines — Growing tensions within the House of Representatives surfaced after Ronaldo Puno, chair of the National Unity Party (NUP) and Deputy Speaker, revealed that several members of the party are dissatisfied with the leadership of House Speaker Jose Maria "Bojie" Dy over the delayed release of funds intended for development projects in various congressional districts.

According to Puno, the party leadership and its members are expected to discuss during the upcoming legislative break whether they will remain part of the Majority bloc or consider stepping down from their respective leadership positions in the chamber. The development comes after reports that the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has yet to download funding for several district projects, with some allocations reportedly categorized as “for later release.” The situation has raised concerns among lawmakers about transparency, communication, and coordination within the House leadership.

The Deputy Speaker also disclosed that while the House Speaker is believed to be aware of the situation, some members feel that the matter was not fully communicated to the broader membership of the chamber. This has fueled internal discussions within the party about accountability and the need for clearer explanations regarding the status of budget releases affecting local infrastructure and community projects across the country.

Despite the brewing political tension, Puno clarified that the issue is separate from the party’s position on the impeachment proceedings involving Vice President Sara Duterte. He emphasized that NUP lawmakers previously supported the motion declaring the remaining complaints against the Vice President as sufficient in substance, stressing that their position was primarily focused on ensuring that any legal proceedings are supported by a solid and well-established case.

The situation has sparked speculation about possible shifts within the House Majority bloc, as political observers note that the decision of the NUP—one of the significant parties within the chamber—could potentially reshape alliances and influence legislative dynamics in the coming months.