Top Philippine court deals blow to president, throws out fund


MANILA (Reuters) - The Philippine Supreme Court threw out as unconstitutional a fund overseen by President Benigno Aquino to stimulate the economy, dealing a setback to his bid to portray himself as a champion of the fight against corruption.

In 2011, Aquino introduced his Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP), devised as a means to boost government spending. His critics derided it as a tool to control Congress by buying the loyalty of its members.

The Star Festive Promo: Get 35% OFF Digital Access

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 8.02/month

Billed as RM 96.20 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In World

Gunman holds students and teachers hostage at Thai school, local administration says
Autopsies show migrants in shipwreck off Greece died of head injuries, not drowning
Record heat and raging fires ring in 2026 across the Southern Hemisphere
Council of Europe strips former head of immunity over Epstein probe
Lavrov says US restrictions on Russia's role in Venezuela oil business are discrimination
Kremlin says Russia will seek clarification from US on Venezuela oil restrictions
Analysis-Income tax break adds to Lula's economic tailwinds ahead of Brazil election
EU Commission to take steps to improve drone detection capabilities
Turkish and Greek leaders set for talks on migration, maritime borders
Thailand's election commission faces pressure over vote transparency

Others Also Read