The Department of Information and Communications Technology announced the integration of blockchain technology and the 2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA), dubbed the “Digital Bayanihan Chain,” to prevent misuse of the national budget and protect it from corruption.

“This is a critical step towards digital governance. This digital technology aims to earn the government’s highest trust. The House Speaker and Senate President are pushing this integration. The Philippines is the first legislative body in Asia to use blockchain for the national budget,” said DICT Secretary Henry Aguda in a Palace briefing on Thursday.

The integration of blockchain and the 2026 GAA means the national fund now has its own receipt that cannot be altered or forged.

“We leapfrogged while other nations only use blockchain in some portion of their funds. By the end of this year, the Philippines will be the first to put its entire national budget into a tamper-proof system. No other nation did this, from approval, disbursement, to reporting. The budget can be verified even after so many years have passed. As they say, the 2026 National Budget has now forever because it be scrutinized forever,” he explained.

The “Digital Bayanihan Chain,” which ensures accountability, transparency, and traceability, is coordinated with the House of Representatives and the Department of Budget and Management. It provides a national budget that is clear, accurate and cannot be erased.