CONGRESS HOLDS FIRST LIVESTREAMED BICAMERAL MEETING

Congress held its first-ever livestreamed bicameral conference committee (bicam) on the national budget on December 13, aiming to restore public trust following the massive flood control corruption scandal.

Previously held behind closed doors, bicam meetings had allowed select lawmakers to insert budget anomalies, contributing to widespread public outrage.

Senate Finance Committee Chair Sen. Win Gatchalian and House Appropriations Committee Chair Mika Suansing emphasized the need for transparency and public participation in the budget process.

The scandal, centered on resigned lawmaker Zaldy Co, involved anomalous flood control projects and implicated officials across both legislative and executive branches, including President Marcos Jr.

Livestreaming the bicam marks a historic step toward accountability as Congress seeks to rebuild confidence in government operations.

Source: PhilNews24 | December 14, 2025