The Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines (FINEX), in a statement Tuesday, welcomed Marcos' decision to veto unprogrammed funds, saying it "sends a strong signal to markets, taxpayers, and institutions that fiscal discipline and accountability remain priorities." “Economic stimulus should not come at the expense of transparency, and every peso, whether programmed or unprogrammed, must be guided by clear objectives, measurable outcomes, and strong oversight,” it said. The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) also welcomed the signing of this year’s national budget, saying it is hoping "that the taxpayers’ money will be judiciously spend and utilized in ways that benefit all Filipinos.” In a separate statement, PCCI president Ferdinand Ferrer said the budget “should drive inclusive growth and economic progress across the country.” He also cited the veto on some unprogrammed projects, calling it a “decisive step toward promoting fiscal discipline, accountability, and transparency in government spending.” For its part, the Makati Business Club noted, among others, the improvement in this year’s national budget, particularly the increase in education budget to PP1.34 trillion, which now accounts for around 4.36 percent of domestic output and is aligned with global benchmark of 4 percent; the hike in agriculture sector budget to P214.39 billion, the highest in over 10 years; and the return of funding for the Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards or Project NOAH and the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth). "To summarize, the 2026 General Appropriations Act is an improved budget compared to those of the previous years, both in terms of allocation focus, and in the improved process transparency," the MBC said. "Information and transparency are necessary in the fight against corruption. But the real antidote will come from a truly engaged citizenry," it added.