CHR gets zero capital outlay in proposed 2027 budget, services may be affected

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) in the Philippines has been allocated zero capital outlay in the proposed National Expenditure Program (NEP) for 2027, alongside a drastic reduction in its overall budget. The CHR had initially proposed a budget of P2.74 billion, which was finalized at P1.27 billion in the NEP, marking a 53% decrease from the agency's request. CHR Chairperson Richard Palpal-latoc stated, "Even if our capital outlay is zero, the commission will still carry out its duty and mandate. However, because there is no allocation for the capital outlay, our services will be affected in terms of ICT (Information and communications technology), our infrastructure facilities, and workplace. Of course, our employees need proper workplaces, especially in our regional offices, and these could be affected." Capital outlay refers to the budget used for the purchase of long-term goods and services. Lawmakers in the House Committee on Appropriations lamented the reduction. Akbayan Rep. Perci Cendaña commented, "The budget is the most concrete expression of priority, and in this case, given the massive cut in the proposed and the actual NEP proposed budget, it looks like human rights is not a priority for this administration." Cendaña also noted that the CHR had requested an additional budget outside the NEP to cover payments for job order personnel. Palpal-latoc explained that while the CHR can still pay these workers, it would necessitate diverting funds from Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses, impacting operational activities as funds would be redirected to wages. Cendana announced his intention to make a motion to restore the CHR’s budget to its full proposed amount at the appropriate time. Information source: GMA News Philippines