The Philippine National Police information technology (IT) program will see a restoration of its original funding after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered a reversion of budget cuts while removing “inserted” intelligence funds to the police force.
In a Palace press briefing Tuesday, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said the various IT projects of the national police incurred significant budget cuts in the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA).
These projects include the Enhancement of the National Police Clearance System, which saw its budget reduced from P600 million in the National Expenditure Program (NEP) to P232 million; the Establishment of the Safe Camp Security System, cut from P472 million to P161 million; and the PNP Drug-Related Data Integration and Generation System, which had its funding slashed from P533 million to P196 million.
Remulla said that while these vital IT programs were underfunded in the GAA, nearly P1 billion was allocated for the purchase of All-Terrain Amphibious Vehicles for the Bicol Region, and an additional P500 million was added to the PNP’s intelligence fund.
In response, Mr. Marcos instructed Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman to revert the PNP’s IT program budget to its original amount and eliminate the additional P500 million allocated to the intelligence fund.
“As instructed by the President… return to original budget,” Remulla said.
The reversion of the budget cuts and the removal of the intelligence fund will free up funds, which will be reallocated to support the integration and enhancement of the 911 emergency hotline system, Remulla said.
The DILG chief said the added intelligence fund for the PNP was not discussed during the budget deliberations in Congress.
He added the department is pushing for significant budget reforms in 2025 to prioritize key programs, including the PNP’s nationwide Integrated 911 System.
The revamped 911 system will feature language-specific call responses, integration of body cameras, and real-time video capabilities for police and medical responders.
“This will meet global standards and ensure a fully audited and transparent process,” Remulla said.
