Politics · Philippines Bureau
House lawmakers kept in dark over 2027 budget details, Puno says
Deputy Speaker Ronaldo Puno has raised concerns that budget transparency has been compromised, with many House members unaware of allocation details approved by the chamber. The allegation adds to mounting criticism over the opacity of the 2027 budget bill.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — Deputy Speaker Ronaldo Puno said Tuesday that the House leadership has denied budget transparency not only to the public but also to members of Congress, with many lawmakers allegedly unaware of the specific allocation details they voted to approve.
Puno's remarks underscore growing frustration within the lower chamber over the lack of visibility surrounding the 2027 budget bill. The deputy speaker suggested that representatives themselves were kept in the dark regarding the spending priorities and line items included in the measure.
The transparency concerns come as the budget bill continues to face scrutiny from various stakeholders, including civil society groups and opposition lawmakers who have questioned the allocation process and justification for certain spending items.
Puno's statement signals internal discord within the House over how the budget was handled and approved, raising questions about the legislative process and oversight mechanisms employed during its passage.