Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed the 2025 budget into law, increasing government spending by 10% to a record 6.33 trillion pesos ($109.2 billion) to boost economic growth and reduce poverty. The budget allocates 1.053 trillion pesos to education, 1.034 trillion to public works, and 35 billion to military modernization, with some cuts drawing criticism from advocates. Marcos vetoed over 194 billion pesos in proposed spending, aiming to achieve 6.0-8.0% economic growth in 2025.
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GE2025: Parliament dissolved ahead of General Election; Nomination Day on Apr 23
SINGAPORE: President Tharman Shanmugaratnam dissolved parliament on April 15, 2025, leading to Singapore's 14th General Election. Nomination Day is set for April 23, with the ruling People's Action Party (PAP) expected to contest all 97 seats against potential candidates from 11 parties, including two opposition alliances. Voter concerns focus on the cost of living and job security, with a return to physical election rallies anticipated as this will be Singapore’s first General Election since the...
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