Most Filipinos Oppose Budget Cuts in Key Sectors

A majority of Filipinos oppose budget cuts in education, agriculture, and public health, believing these reductions will negatively impact the country, according to the latest WR Numero survey.

The nationwide poll, conducted from February 10 to 18, 2025, surveyed 1,814 Filipinos through face-to-face interviews. It aimed to gauge public sentiment on the 2025 national budget and its perceived effects.

The survey found that 58% of Filipinos believe reducing the budget for education contradicts the government’s constitutional mandate to prioritize the sector. Meanwhile, 23% disagreed, and 19% were uncertain.

In agriculture, 56% of respondents said cuts would lead to higher food prices and worsen poverty among farmers and fishermen, while 27% disagreed and 18% were unsure.

Regarding public health, 53% opposed budget reductions for the Department of Health and the removal of PhilHealth subsidies, citing concerns over access to healthcare. However, 31% disagreed, and 17% remained undecided.

Concerns Over Election-Related Budgeting

More than half of respondents (51%) believe that increasing funding for the Ayuda para sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP) could be used as a political tool for election campaigning. Meanwhile, 29% disagreed, and 21% were uncertain.

Public opinion was more divided on whether the national budget prioritizes politicians over the Filipino people. Nearly 39% agreed that the budget serves political interests, while 27% disagreed, and 35% were unsure.

Regional and Income Class Divisions

Filipinos in Metro Manila were the most skeptical, with 51% believing the budget serves politicians more than the public. Similar sentiments were seen in Mindanao (41%) and Luzon (37%), while Visayans were more divided at 33% in agreement and 31% in disagreement.

Across income classes, 53% of Class ABC respondents agreed that the budget benefits politicians more than ordinary citizens. Among Class D and E respondents, 38% shared the same view, but many remained uncertain (32% and 36%, respectively).

Methodology and Upcoming Reports

The WR Numero survey had a ±2% margin of error at a 95% confidence level. Regional margins of error ranged from ±5% to ±6%.

The full Volume 2025 Issue 1 report, set for release in March, will cover additional topics, including the 2025 elections, the impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte, and other national and global issues.

For updates, interested individuals can sign up at bit.ly/PPOMSignup.