Senate Moves to Strengthen Budget Process Transparency
MANILA — The Senate has taken a decisive step to strengthen budget process transparency with the approval of Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 4. This resolution aims to institutionalize strict transparency and accountability measures within the national budget process, officials reported.
During a plenary session held on Wednesday, following three days of thorough floor debates, the Senate unanimously adopted the resolution. It was sponsored by Senate Finance Committee chair Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian, who emphasized the importance of openness in fiscal governance.
Promoting Accountability and Public Trust
Senator Gatchalian expressed the Senate’s firm commitment to accountability and regaining public trust. He highlighted that the concurrent resolution embodies this mission by promoting an effective, efficient, and lean budget for 2026. “Our vision is to usher in a golden age of transparency and accountability that will open up the budget process and empower the public to understand the budget, increase their participation, and root the system of accountability in the people themselves,” he said.
Key Measures to Enhance Transparency
At the heart of the resolution is the public release of critical documents at every stage of the budget process. These include the General Appropriations Bill, committee reports, and other relevant materials, community members said. Currently, only the National Expenditure Program—the initial consolidated budget document—and the General Appropriations Act, which is the approved budget, are accessible online.
Senator Gatchalian stressed that the resolution requires all uploaded documents to be timely, comprehensive, and machine-readable. “This saves time and ensures that the analysis of the documents is not compromised by poor document quality,” he explained.
Engaging the Public Through Digital Platforms
In addition, the resolution proposes creating interactive platforms on both the Senate and House of Representatives websites. These platforms will allow the public to share their analyses, suggestions, and feedback on the national budget, local leaders noted. This initiative aims to deepen citizen participation and oversight.
Protecting Every Peso for National Priorities
Senator Gatchalian assured that Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 4 will safeguard the proper use of public funds. “Every peso is protected, properly spent, and aligned with the nation’s true priorities,” he affirmed, underscoring the resolution’s role in fiscal responsibility.
With this resolution, the Senate sets a new standard in budget transparency and public engagement, marking a significant milestone in Philippine governance.
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