The cyber world is abuzz with a medley of emotions following a rather unusual statement by Sen. Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa regarding the Philippines’ looming national debt. As netizens shared their diverse opinions, it seems the senator’s assertion has triggered a wide range of reactions.

Dela Rosa, a prominent figure within the current administration, took center stage during the Senate Finance Committee’s discussion on the proposed national budget for 2024 on August 15. With a grin that quickly turned viral, the former police chief expressed his unorthodox perspective on the projected P15.8 trillion national debt by the end of 2024.

“Don’t panic, mga Pilipino. Utang lang ‘yan,” Dela Rosa reassured his fellow citizens. His lighthearted tone and carefree demeanor stood in stark contrast to the weighty topic at hand.

The senator’s joviality continued even as someone in the room suggested, “Have babies, Senator Dela Rosa. Have babies…”

His response? A hearty burst of laughter. Even Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno and National Economic Development Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, present at the hearing, joined the laughter symphony, amplifying the unconventional atmosphere of the event.

Dela Rosa’s perspective emerged in the wake of Diokno’s explanation about how ordinary Filipinos, particularly the underprivileged, should approach their taxes in light of the proposed national budget.

Not stopping at his initial quip, Dela Rosa elaborated on his unique view of the burgeoning national debt. “Marami ang nagsasabi if mas maganda na maraming anak kasi kapag lumaki ang population, has marami ang maghahati-hati sa utang. Mas bababa ang per capita ng utang natin,” he ventured, confidently asserting his rather uncharted theory.

However, not everyone found amusement in Dela Rosa’s offbeat take. Brianne Yuson, previously active on Twitter as X, minced no words in her criticism, remarking, “Tuwang tuna pa siya sa kabobohan niya,” targeting the senator’s perceived lack of seriousness on the issue.

Elon Mhusk, another online commentator, was quick to emphasize Dela Rosa’s hefty retirement benefits while holding key positions, paid for by Filipino taxpayers.

Hulyan Pablo voiced his discontent with a succinct comment: “I am offended every time I see his devilish face on senate hearing. Hindi deserve ng tax na binabayaran ko.” The sentiment was echoed by Pinot Santa, who drew connections between Dela Rosa’s attitude and the broader context of distrust towards governmental initiatives.