Manila: Senate President Vicente 'Tito' Sotto III announced on Friday that the Senate is aiming for the ratification of the proposed 2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA) by December 29. This timeline is set to ensure that lawmakers approve a complete and fully verified enrolled bill, rather than just a summary of the bicameral report.

According to Philippines News Agency, Sotto mentioned that discussions with Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri have led to a plan to entertain a motion to extend the suspension of the session until the 29th of December. This extension is intended to provide the budget offices of both chambers sufficient time to complete the printing and consolidation of the enrolled bill along with its supporting documents.

Sotto emphasized that the Senate leadership has agreed to proceed with ratification only once the enrolled bill is finalized and clearly laid out. He highlighted that the entire budget process, from sponsorship to bicameral deliberations, has been conducted transparently, allowing public and media access.

Sotto expressed his preference for ratifying a complete enrolled bill, the version that is prepared for the President's signature, rather than a mere summary. He reassured that any delays in the process would likely be minimal since both chambers have already completed work on the General Appropriations Bill.

He also conveyed confidence in the budget being signed without significant disruptions, noting that the President has sufficient authority to manage the budget effectively, including the power to veto items or withhold funds if necessary.