DBM tells government agencies: Keep Christmas parties modest

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has reminded government agencies to keep Christmas celebrations and year-end parties merry but modest as the country faces an energy emergency and a looming El Niño peak.

In Circular Letter 2026-15 dated Nov. 9, the DBM reiterated the need for government offices to ensure the “judicious and prudent use of public funds” in conducting activities funded by taxpayers.

The directive covers national government agencies, state-run firms, government financial institutions, state universities and colleges, local government units and other concerned government entities.

The warning came after acting Budget Secretary Kim Robert de Leon raised concerns over the tendency of some agencies to conduct activities toward the end of the fiscal year primarily to increase their budget utilization rates, including parties masquerading as planning sessions.