Manila: Live-streaming the deliberations on the proposed PHP7.2-trillion national budget for 2027 would promote transparency, allowing taxpayers to scrutinize and know how public funds are spent. Manila 6th District Rep. Bienvenido Abante Jr. expressed his support for the possibility of another open bicameral conference for the 2027 national budget during the Saturday News Forum in Quezon City.

According to Philippines News Agency, the proposed national budget for 2027 is about six percent higher than the PHP6.793 trillion for 2026. It includes PHP111.9 billion in unprogrammed appropriations, which may be released only when specified funding conditions are met. The Department of Education has the highest allocation at PHP976 billion.

Abante emphasized that the budget should not be kept a secret, whether it involves unprogrammed funds or automatic appropriations. He stressed the importance of transparency in the bicameral conference and suggested inviting religious groups, educators, and civil society organizations to ensure public scrutiny.

The House of Representatives is set to begin its deliberations on the national budget Monday and aims to approve the 2027 General Appropriations Bill by Oct. 9. Abante noted that the ongoing impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte at the Senate would not affect the timeline for the budget.

Acting Department of Budget and Management Secretary Kim de Leon stated on Friday that opening the bicameral proceedings to public scrutiny would promote a 'more transparent, accountable, and participatory budget process.'