Politics · Philippines Bureau
Budget watchdogs slam House lack of transparency on 7.2-trillion peso budget
Civil society groups have raised concerns about the House of Representatives' approval of the 2027 national budget, citing insufficient transparency during the legislative process. The criticism comes as public confidence in budget procedures remains fragile following a major flood control infrastructure scandal.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — Civil society organizations and budget advocacy groups on Monday criticized the House of Representatives for approving the P7.2-trillion proposed national budget for 2027 without adequate transparency measures, citing ongoing concerns about public trust in the budgeting process.
The House passed the spending measure on third and final reading, moving it toward the Senate for consideration. However, watchdog groups alleged that the chamber failed to maintain adequate disclosure standards and public consultation during the legislative deliberations.
The criticism reflects broader anxieties about budget accountability in the Philippines. Public confidence in the appropriations process has been undermined by recent revelations of a multibillion-peso scam involving flood control project funds, prompting civil society to demand greater oversight and transparency in government spending.
Budget advocates have called for stronger parliamentary protocols to enhance public scrutiny of how taxpayer money is allocated across various government agencies and programs. They argue that increased transparency would help restore public faith in the budget process during a period of heightened skepticism about government financial management.