House ends plenary debates on 2027 budget

MANILA, Philippines - The House of Representatives has concluded its debates on the proposed P7.2 trillion national budget for2027, likely clearing the way for its passage on second reading early next month.

Administration and opposition lawmakers scrutinized the details of the budgets of 240 departments, agencies and government-owned-and-controlled corporations, including 113 state universities and colleges, from Sept. 15 to 25.

Rep. Mikaela Suansing, chairperson of the House committee on appropriations, assured her colleagues and the public that House Bill 10858 or the 2027 General Appropriations Act carries enough safeguards to ensure the rules and standards governing the use and evaluation of funds would be religiously followed.

The Nueva Ecija congresswoman also underscored the importance of establishing clear reportorial requirements and continuing coordination with the Department of Budget and Management, including on the Local Government Support Fund.