The president of National Action (PAN), jorge Romeropresented in the Chamber of Deputies a proposal for alternate budget in which they propose a reallocation of 4.4% of the 9.3 billion pesos that the federal government will spend next year.
The PAN alternate budget proposes a 50% reduction for the Maya Train, the cancellation of the payment to Fobaproa, a budget reduction for Pemex, cutting 36.7% to the Dos Bocas refinery and budgeting the price of a barrel from 57.8 to 63.8 dollars.
It also proposes redirecting 100% of the budget for IMSS-Bienestar to create Universal Health Insurance; The total of proposed movements would amount to 416 billion pesos.
“They prefer there to be more vaccines, they prefer there to be more patrols in their streets, they prefer there to be more lights in their parks, they prefer there to be more chemotherapies for women, for children, they prefer there to be more hospital infrastructure or they prefer another 40 billion for the Maya Train, or they prefer 136 billion to refinance Pemex.
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“Beyond colors, whether cherries or blues, what do people prefer? Medicines or 40 billion for a bottomless hole of a supposedly already completed project called the Mayan Train or the Dos Bocas Refinery,” questioned Romero.
The PAN leader considered that the expenditure budget for next year started badly since the income Law, because a debt of 1.6 billion pesos is being requested.
And even though, it is indeed not said, he added RomeroOf what is being requested in debt, 1.1 billion goes to pay debt.
“That is what the 4T is doing, which is not debt, it is not even 1.6 trillion pesos for infrastructure, it is not even for medicines, it is not even for bridges for hospitals, for tunnels, for clinics, it is to pay the same debt that they have been acquiring,” he expressed.
romero condemned the decreases in the PEF 2025 presented by the Ministry of Finance and Public Credit in health, security and education.
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How can citizens effectively participate in the federal budget-making process?
Interview: Reallocating the Federal Budget for a Better Future
Editor, Time.news: Today, we’re joined by Jorge Romero, the president of the National Action Party (PAN), to discuss the party’s recent proposal for an alternate budget in the Chamber of deputies. Welcome, Jorge!
Jorge Romero: Thank you for having me. I’m excited to discuss our vision for the budget and it’s implications for the people of Mexico.
Editor: Let’s dive into the details. Your proposal suggests reallocating 4.4% of the federal budget, focusing on essential areas like healthcare and public safety. What inspired this package?
Jorge Romero: We recognized that the citizens have clear preferences. They want more vaccines, better hospital infrastructure, and increased security measures. The PAN alternate budget prioritizes these essential needs over projects like the Maya Train and the Dos Bocas Refinery, which we believe are underfunded and mismanaged.
Editor: One notable point in your proposal is the 50% reduction for the Maya Train and the substantial cuts to Pemex and the Dos Bocas refinery. What are the expected outcomes of these budget cuts?
Jorge Romero: By reducing funds for the Maya Train and refocusing on healthcare and security, we can allocate up to 416 billion pesos toward essential services. We believe these cuts allow us to invest in Universal Health Insurance through IMSS-bienestar,ensuring that everyone has access to necessary medications and treatments.
Editor: You also mentioned wanting to increase funding for local security measures. How does this align with public sentiments?
Jorge Romero: Absolutely. Our research shows that people prefer money spent on patrols and community safety rather than on grand infrastructure projects that yield minimal returns on public safety. Security is a priority, and our budget reflects what the citizens want most—safety in their communities.
Editor: Critics of alternate budgets often argue about the long-term implications of cutting funds from large infrastructure projects. How do you respond to this concern?
Jorge Romero: While it’s essential to invest in infrastructure, it’s equally important to ensure that citizens’ immediate needs are met. Our current budget promotes a cycle of debt without substantial investment in health, education, or security. The 1.6 trillion pesos proposed for 2025 include a significant amount for debt servicing rather than new projects. We must re-evaluate our spending priorities based on what will benefit people now.
Editor: With proposed reallocations and cuts, how do you envision the role of the government in supporting these sectors?
Jorge Romero: The government’s role should be to facilitate access to health care, education, and security. By prioritizing funding based on citizens’ needs, we can build a healthier, safer, and better-educated society. It’s a call for responsible budgeting that aligns with what Mexicans value most.
Editor: As you advocate for this alternate budget, what practical advice would you give to citizens wanting to engage with the budget process?
Jorge Romero: I encourage citizens to stay informed and voice their preferences to their representatives. Attend public forums, engage in discussions on social media, and utilize the openness initiatives pushed by organizations. Your input is vital in shaping a budget that reflects the community’s priorities.
Editor: Thank you, Jorge, for sharing your insights on the PAN’s alternate budget proposal and the importance of prioritizing public needs. Your viewpoint sheds light on key issues that resonate with many citizens today.
Jorge Romero: Thank you for having me. It’s essential we continue this conversation as we strive for a future that serves the best interests of all Mexicans.