Solon slams DBM's proposed PUP budget as 'far from reality'

MANILA, Philippines — Kamanggagawa Party-list Rep. Elijah San Fernando has sharply criticized the Department of Budget and Management's (DBM) proposed budget for the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) for 2027, stating that the allocated amount is too low to even sustain the university's operations next year. During a House sponsorship session on Wednesday, the lawmaker emphasized that the DBM's proposal is "far from reality" and does not adequately reflect the actual needs of PUP. He argued that a more realistic and sufficient budget allocation is necessary to maintain the quality of education and continue providing services to students. PUP is a state university with numerous campuses across the Philippines, offering accessible higher education to a large student population at relatively affordable tuition fees. Consequently, its budget is crucial for ensuring educational equity. The congressman's remarks raise concerns that the DBM's proposal might not fully consider PUP's role and current circumstances. In the Philippines, the operations of state universities heavily rely on government funding, and any reduction or inadequate allocation directly impacts educational quality and student welfare. With inflation and rising educational costs, securing adequate funding is a pressing issue. San Fernando urged the DBM to accurately assess PUP's operational realities and reconsider the budget proposal to enable the university to fulfill its mission as an educational institution.