Opening Bicameral Conference Committee Proceedings Promotes Transparency
MANILA, Philippines – Opening the bicameral conference committee proceedings to the public can reveal the lawmakers who attempt to add pork barrel funds into the national budget, local leaders noted. Senator Panfilo Lacson emphasized that this step toward transparency is crucial in the budget process.
While opening the bicam may not completely stop pork barrel insertions, it serves as a significant deterrent. “It is still possible that some insertions could be made, but at least we can identify those who did so for their projects,” Lacson said in an interview with Bombo Radyo Philippines.
Tracking Budget Changes Through Public Access
According to sources, allowing the public to observe the bicameral hearings and access minutes and transcripts will help lawmakers and citizens track the differences between the General Appropriations Bill and the National Expenditure Program. This transparency will pressure legislators to think twice before making unauthorized insertions or realignments.
“For their part, lawmakers will think twice before making insertions or realignments because they can be identified,” Lacson added, underscoring the accountability such openness would bring.
Advocating for Longer Review and Revision Periods
Lacson is also advocating for extended periods for the Senate to review amendments from the House regarding the National Expenditure Program. Additionally, he pushes for Congress to have enough time to review and revise the budget bill if the President decides to veto it.
He pointed out that in previous years, legislators faced pressure to approve the budget bill quickly, leaving little room to thoroughly examine it for anomalies or questionable provisions.
Legislative Efforts to Ensure Budget Transparency
Earlier, Lacson filed a bill aiming to open the entire budget process, including bicameral conference committee hearings, to civil society organizations. He stressed the importance of establishing mechanisms that guarantee the budget process remains transparent and free from manipulation.
Opening bicameral conference committee proceedings fosters accountability and public trust in the budgeting system, local sources concluded.
For more news and updates on budget transparency, visit Filipinokami.com.
