Senate Approves Government Optimization Act
The Senate has passed on third and final reading the Government Optimization Act, empowering the President to optimize government positions. Twenty-two senators voted in favor during the plenary session on June 2, with no opposition or abstentions. This marks a significant step toward streamlining public service and improving efficiency.
Senate President Francis “Chiz” G. Escudero, the principal author, initially titled the bill the Rightsizing the National Government Act of 2022. The measure is a key priority of the current administration and was discussed at the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council meeting on May 29, 2025.
Key Goals of the Government Optimization Act
The Government Optimization Act aims to minimize overlapping roles, eliminate redundant functions, and simplify government rules and procedures. Importantly, Escudero assured that no layoffs or displacement of employees will occur once the law is enacted. Instead, the bill focuses on streamlining bureaucracy while creating new positions and offices, and promoting upskilling and upgrading of personnel.
Under the bill, a Committee on Optimizing the Executive Branch (COEB) will be established to oversee implementation. This committee will be chaired by the Executive Secretary and co-chaired by the Secretary of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM). Other members include the Secretary of Socioeconomic Planning, the Civil Service Commission Chairperson, and the Anti-Red Tape Authority Director-General.
Scope and Exemptions
The Government Optimization Act covers all executive branch agencies, including departments, bureaus, commissions, boards, councils, and government-owned or -controlled corporations (GOCCs) not covered by the GOCC Governance Act of 2011. However, the measure exempts the legislature, judiciary, constitutional commissions, the Office of the Ombudsman, local government units, teaching roles in education, and military and uniformed personnel in key departments such as Defense, Interior and Local Government, Transportation, Environment and Natural Resources, and Justice.
Local leaders noted, “This bill paves the way for a more efficient government without threatening jobs.” The measure promises a leaner bureaucracy, better resource allocation, and enhanced public service delivery.
For more news and updates on Government Optimization Act, visit Filipinokami.com.