Marcos Jr. strengthens governance with new budget chief and policy reforms
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has continued his administration’s focus on social development and infrastructure upgrades. Recent moves include expanding pork import limits, advancing key projects, and appointing a new budget chief.
One of the latest changes is the selection of Kim Robert De Leon, a 32-year-old public administration graduate, as the new secretary of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).
De Leon graduated magna cum laude and valedictorian from the University of the Philippines - National College of Public Administration and Governance. His appointment comes as the government pushes for faster service delivery through programmes like the Bawat Bayan Makikinabang initiative. Since its launch in February, the scheme has reached over 8,700 villages across the country.
On economic policy, Marcos signed Executive Order 116, raising the minimum access volume for pork imports in 2026. The limit will jump from 54,210 metric tonnes to 204,210 metric tonnes. This follows ongoing efforts to stabilise food supply and prices. Infrastructure remains a priority, with the G. Araneta Drainage Improvement Project in Quezon City now more than 96 percent complete. Officials expect the work to finish before the rainy season, reducing flood risks in the area. Meanwhile, security concerns arose after reports of tensions linked to the possible arrest of Senator Ronald Dela Rosa. Marcos ordered the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to conduct a full probe. Both agencies have since submitted their findings to the Department of Justice following the May 13 incident at the Senate building. The president also stressed the need for better coordination between national and local governments. This aligns with his broader push for streamlined governance and faster public service delivery.
The administration’s recent actions cover economic, security, and infrastructure priorities. De Leon’s appointment as DBM secretary brings new leadership to budget management, while expanded import quotas and drainage projects address immediate public needs. Investigations into the Senate incident remain ongoing as authorities review the submitted reports.
