MANILA, Philippines – A coalition of alumni from the University of the Philippines (UP) has issued a strong statement denouncing the proposed budget cuts in the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA). The manifesto, signed by 89 alumni, criticizes reductions in education and healthcare budgets as detrimental to national progress and welfare.
The proposed cuts include a ₱2 billion reduction for UP, a ₱12 billion slash to the Department of Education (DepEd), and the complete removal of funding for PhilHealth, the country’s primary public health insurance provider.
In their statement, the alumni underscored the profound impact of these reductions, describing them as a “disservice to the future of our nation.” They emphasized that education and health are cornerstones of sustainable national development, warning that the budget cuts undermine these fundamental pillars.
The Breakdown of Concerns
- Education as a National Priority
The manifesto highlights how budget cuts will cripple UP’s capacity to deliver critical research, innovation, and leadership development. It also warns that the DepEd’s reduced budget could lead to classroom shortages, larger class sizes, and fewer teaching resources, compromising the quality of education for millions of Filipino students. - Health as a Basic Right
By defunding PhilHealth, the government threatens access to affordable healthcare, particularly for marginalized sectors. The alumni noted that this move could push millions into financial distress or deny them lifesaving medical care. - Social Services as a Moral Obligation
The group criticized the budget proposal for reflecting misplaced priorities, which they argued compromise the dignity and well-being of Filipinos, as well as the nation’s economic stability.
Calls to Action
The UP alumni laid out their demands, urging the government to:
- Restore and increase UP’s budget to support research, academic programs, and facilities.
- Reinstate DepEd’s funding to address existing challenges in public education.
- Fund PhilHealth to maintain access to universal healthcare services.
- Engage stakeholders in crafting a more equitable and responsive national budget.
Mobilizing Support
The alumni pledged to mobilize their extensive network to advocate for education and healthcare funding. Efforts will include dialogues with policymakers, raising public awareness, and supporting initiatives aimed at restoring critical budgets.
They also called on all Filipinos to unite in defending these essential services. “A nation that neglects its education and health is a nation that sacrifices its future,” the statement read.
A Growing Concern
The statement comes amid growing public concern over the government’s fiscal priorities. Many sectors have criticized the 2025 budget proposal for reducing allocations to essential services while increasing funding for less urgent expenditures.
Signatories Represent Broad Support
The manifesto, signed by a diverse group of alumni from various fields, reflects broad-based support for the cause. Among the notable signatories are educators, healthcare professionals, advocates, and students, emphasizing the cross-generational nature of the movement.
As the budget proposal awaits deliberation in Congress, the UP alumni and their allies remain steadfast in their advocacy, urging lawmakers to prioritize the nation’s future through investments in education and health.