The Senate and House of Representatives opened the second regular session of the 20th Congress with the 2027 national budget and key economic measures among their top priorities.
Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian said lawmakers would focus on lowering the cost of living, increasing workers’ take-home pay, reducing electricity and fuel costs, accelerating infrastructure development, and creating jobs amid slower economic growth projections.
Priority measures include amendments to the Rice Tariffication Law, the proposed Ginhawa Bill, the Energy Regulatory Commission Strengthening Bill, and reforms in petroleum pricing and infrastructure planning.
Gatchalian also reaffirmed the Senate’s commitment to education, health, and social protection, highlighting the historic education budget allocation.
In the House, Majority Leader Sandro Marcos said Congress remains productive despite political tensions and noted that 26 priority measures had already been passed during the first regular session.
Source: PhilNews24 | July 28, 2026
