Manila, Philippines – August 2025
MANILA, Philippines – The House Committee on Appropriations officially began the 2026 national budget deliberation on Monday, marking the start of discussions on the proposed P6.793 trillion national budget for the coming year.
House Speaker Martin Romualdez emphasized that, just like Filipino households plan their budgets with care, the government must ensure that each peso serves a meaningful purpose for the people.
Key Figures at the Deliberation
The first session of the budget deliberations saw the presence of key government officials, including Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan Jr., and Finance Secretary Ralph Recto.
Their roles are crucial in the process of reviewing the proposed budget and addressing any concerns raised by lawmakers.
Romualdez Stresses Scrutiny and Accountability
During the hearing, Romualdez assured the public that lawmakers would conduct thorough scrutiny of the budget. However, he clarified that the House of Representatives would work with the Executive branch as an ally, not as adversaries. “We will scrutinize, we will question, we will deliberate thoroughly. But we’ll do so not as adversaries, but as allies united by a shared purpose,” Romualdez stated.
President Marcos’ Warning on Misaligned Budget
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had previously indicated that he would not sign the national budget into law if it is “misaligned” with his administration’s programs. This statement highlights the importance of alignment between the Legislative and Executive branches to ensure that the budget supports the president’s strategic goals for the country.
Conclusion: A Collaborative Approach to the 2026 Budget
The 2026 national budget deliberation is expected to be a thorough and collaborative process, with lawmakers and government officials working together to ensure that the proposed spending plan meets the needs of the Filipino people.
The focus will remain on transparency, accountability, and making sure every peso is spent effectively to address national priorities.
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