DBM Sec Kim: Spending 98% of Budget Means Little If Filipinos Get Less

MANILA, Philippines — October 14, 2026 — An agency may spend 98 percent of its budget but still fail to deliver meaningful results for Filipinos.

This was stressed by Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Kim Robert C. De Leon in his call to focus on how government funds are used, whether agencies achieve their targets, and most importantly, whether their programs truly benefit Filipinos. [1]

In his message before financial executives at the 58th FINEX Annual Conference on Oct 9, Sec. Kim challenged the view that high budget utilization rate automatically means good performance. He said actual accomplishments must be checked alongside amount spent. [1]

“I would not want to be gauged on the percentage of the budget being utilized. We’re looking at quality of spending. You may be spending less but producing more in terms of output and even outcome,” Sec. Kim said. [1]

According to the Budget Chief, financial performance is measured through obligations and disbursements, but this must be evaluated together with physical accomplishments including reaching program targets and actual delivery of products and services for the public. [1]

“Don’t just look at, ‘We spent 98 percent of budget.’ On what?” he asked. [1]

What This Means for Gov Workers

Sec. Kim warned against unnecessary expenses done only to increase budget utilization rate, including activities presented as official planning sessions even if their benefit to agency operations is questionable. [1]

He assured that policy revisions will be out very soon, tightening government’s policy in ensuring that money is spent wisely and for the benefit of the people. [1]

This aligns with DBM’s recent reform under Circular Letter No. 2026-10 which automatically releases funds for salaries, PERA, Year-End Bonus, Cash Gift, Medical Allowance and other benefits without separate request — ensuring funds go directly to employees, not to wasteful activities.

For Sec. Kim, the true measure of good government performance is the value and benefit delivered by every peso spent for Filipinos. [1]

FAQs

What did DBM Sec Kim say about 98% budget spending?

Sec. Kim said spending 98% of budget means little if Filipinos get less benefit. Agencies should be judged on quality of spending and actual output, not just utilization rate.

Will this affect year-end spending of agencies?

Yes. DBM is preparing policy revisions to prevent agencies from doing unnecessary spending in Q4 just to increase utilization rate, including questionable planning sessions.

What is the benefit for government employees?

Funds will be prioritized for real benefits like salaries, bonuses, and allowances that directly reach employees and the public, instead of wasteful activities.

Source: [1] DBM.gov.ph – Sec Kim: Spending 98% of Budget Means Little If Filipinos Get Less