House Receives 2026 National Budget
The House of Representatives has officially received the Department of Budget and Management’s proposed 2026 national budget, amounting to P6.793 trillion. This significant development sets the stage for upcoming committee-level deliberations that will shape the country’s fiscal priorities.
During a formal event on Wednesday, key House officials, including Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, Senior Deputy Speaker David Suarez, and Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander Marcos, accepted the National Expenditure Program (NEP) for 2026, marking the start of the budget process, sources said.
Education Sector Gains the Largest Budget Increase
The proposed 2026 budget highlights education as the biggest beneficiary, with its allocation increased to P1.2 trillion. This boost aims to support the sector’s expanding needs and improve educational services nationwide, local leaders noted.
On the same day, the Department of Budget and Management formally handed over the P6.7 trillion National Expenditure Program to the House of Representatives. Lawmakers are expected to deliberate on the proposal next month to formulate the General Appropriations Bill (GAB), officials reported.
Typhoon Gorio Intensifies Near Taiwan, Brings Rain to Philippines
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) reported that Typhoon Gorio (international name: Podul) has intensified further as it approaches southern Taiwan. This development raises concerns for nearby regions, including the Philippines.
Alongside the typhoon, the southwest monsoon, locally known as “habagat,” is forecast to bring widespread rainfall to many parts of the country on Wednesday, community members said.
Senate Minority Leader Cautious on Charter Change
Senate Minority Leader Vicente “Tito” Sotto III expressed reservations about amending the 1987 Constitution at this time. He emphasized there is no compelling reason to pursue changes unless the Supreme Court issues a ruling that necessitates it.
“I’ll still wait for the result of the MR (motion for reconsideration) before I decide to support or not,” Sotto stated in a text message on Wednesday, reflecting his cautious stance.
New Senate Committee Chair on Constitutional Amendments
Senator Kiko Pangilinan has been appointed as the new chairman of the Senate committee on constitutional amendments and revision of codes. He replaces Senator Robinhood Padilla in this critical role, officials reported.
The announcement came during the Senate plenary session on Tuesday afternoon, signaling a shift in leadership for the committee tasked with reviewing possible constitutional changes.
For more news and updates on the 2026 national budget, visit Filipinokami.com.
