Senate Urges Local Leaders’ Role in 2026 Budget Hearings
Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero has called for the active participation of local government executives in the Senate public hearings on the proposed 2026 national budget. He emphasized that local leaders such as governors and city mayors should no longer be sidelined in these crucial discussions.
“They have been sidelined for too long. It is now time to give them a seat at the table,” Escudero stated, as community members and officials reported his proposal to include local officials in the budget deliberations.
Breaking Tradition to Include Local Government Executives
Escudero suggested this change to Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, chair of the Committee on Finance, marking a significant shift from past practices where local officials were excluded from shaping the country’s key spending plan.
Local leaders noted that while department and bureau heads regularly defend their budget requests before the Senate, local chief executives—who implement many national projects—have not been given the same opportunity to share their insights.
“If the division heads of small bureaus attend budget hearings, why not the heads of provinces and big cities?” Escudero questioned, highlighting the inconsistency.
Ground-Level Insights Vital for Budget Accuracy
Officials reported that local government executives possess firsthand knowledge of their communities’ needs. Their involvement could help better vet and verify which projects truly benefit constituents and which may be unnecessary or overpriced.
“The perspectives of leaders on the ground are invaluable in determining which projects are necessary and which are not. They can also help flag possible overpricing in the appropriations being requested,” Escudero explained.
Addressing Wasteful Spending and White-Elephant Projects
Local leaders and sources pointed out that many projects have been included in the budget without consulting local government units, often influenced by political considerations. This practice has led to inefficient spending and the rise of white-elephant projects.
“These are their territories, that’s why they are the ones who can really answer whether there’s a genuine need for these projects. Their feedback is too important to be ignored,” Escudero emphasized.
Including local government executives in budget hearings promises a more transparent and accountable process. Their direct input can ensure that national funds are allocated effectively and that projects truly serve public interests.
For more news and updates on national budget matters, visit Filipinokami.com.
