Chilean regional governors protest proposed 2027 budget cuts

Chilean regional governors and local authorities are expressing significant concern over proposed cuts in the 2027 Budget. The Association of Regional Governors (AGORECHI) reports a projected decrease of approximately 250 billion pesos for regional governments, which officials warn will directly impact employment, housing, health, and social programs.

In the Ñuble region, authorities report a potential 12% reduction in investment, amounting to roughly 11 billion pesos. Additionally, Deputy Francisco Crisóstomo has denounced a proposed 28 billion peso cut to the Ricarte Soto Law, which supports over 75,000 patients with high-cost pathologies, calling the move inhumane.

Magallanes Governor Jorge Flies described a “tense” meeting with Finance Minister Jorge Quiroz, noting that while the government maintains that adjustments are necessary, the magnitude and speed of the proposed 10% reduction for regional governments are problematic. Governors plan to present their concerns before the Mixed Budget Subcommission next week.