The Senate approved the proposed P6.793-trillion national budget for 2026, describing it as a people-centered plan that emphasizes transparency and accountability, with 17 senators voting in favor and none opposing.
Education received the largest allocation of P1.37 trillion, including funding for over 24,000 new classrooms and school-based feeding programs, while the Department of Public Works and Highways’ budget was reduced by P54.2 billion amid concerns over ghost and substandard flood control projects.
Senate leaders mandated that all infrastructure projects include station numbers and coordinates to prevent misuse of funds.
Bicameral conference deliberations are scheduled from December 12 to 14, with both chambers agreeing to livestream the proceedings for public scrutiny despite some reported opposition in the House.
Civil society groups, however, flagged contentious provisions, including continued funding for social aid programs and increased congressional budgets, urging full transparency before final ratification.
Source: PhilNews24 | December 10, 2025
