SOME 182 retired military and police top brass two days ago issued an open letter addressed to President Marcos Jr. angrily protesting the government's budget for next year, as revised by a joint 'bicameral' committee of 12 legislators consisting of Senate President Francis Escudero and House Speaker Martin Romualdez's most trusted people.

The letter pointed out that the new proposed budget, among other provisions, outrageously increased the money Congress members can use for their own expenses as well as for a fund likely to be used for their reelection in the May 2025 elections while reducing funds for critical departments with activities intended to alleviate the welfare of the poor.