Manila, April 17 -- The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) denied circulating claims on social media that the 2025 national budget has already been "depleted," clarifying that early fund releases are standard practice and do not mean public funds have been spent.

"Huwag po sana tayong agad maniwala sa mga taong naglalagay ng kulay o bahid sa mga bagay na wala namang anomalya (Let us not immediately believe those who put color or taint on things that have no anomalies)," DBM Undersecretary and Spokesperson Goddess Hope Libiran said in a video statement Wednesday, urging the public to rely on verified information.

According to the agency, over 80 percent of the national budget has indeed been released as of the first quarter of 202...