Manila: Senator Imee Marcos is calling for increased transparency and dialogue in the upcoming bicameral conference meeting on the 2025 General Appropriations Bill (GAB) between the Senate and the House of Representatives. Marcos has reached out to Senate President Francis Escudero and Finance panel chairperson Grace Poe, urging them to ensure openness and collaboration during the discussions. According to Philippines News Agency, Senator Marcos, in a statement on Monday, suggested involving all vice chairpersons of Finance sub-committees in the meeting. She emphasized the importance of open discussions on budget amendments and proposed pre-bicameral conference coordination with the House to align priorities and address potential disagreements. Marcos highlighted the significance of adopting a collaborative and transparent approach to the crafting of the General Appropriations Bill. "This isn't just about numbers, it's about shaping the future of our country," she stated, underscoring the necessity for all stakeholders to have the opportunity to weigh in on significant amendments to address the real needs of the Filipino people. Furthermore, Senator Marcos urged her colleagues to prioritize transparency and dialogue in the budget deliberations to prevent "last-minute insertions and unpleasant surprises" in the PHP6.532-trillion proposed budget for 2025.