Majority lawmakers voice frustration over P7.2-trillion 2027 budget proposal

MANILA — Growing dissatisfaction is brewing within the majority bloc in Congress over the proposed P7.2-trillion national budget for 2027, according to a senior House leader. Deputy Speaker Ronaldo Puno of the National Unity Party said lawmakers from his faction have voiced frustration with the spending bill and are calling for substantial modifications to the proposal.

Puno's comments on Wednesday signal potential friction as the chamber moves forward with budget deliberations, despite the administration's backing for the spending plan. The tension within the majority coalition suggests debates over budget allocations and priorities may extend beyond the opposition benches.

The 2027 budget has become a focal point of legislative discussion as lawmakers weigh competing demands from various sectors and constituencies. Puno did not immediately detail which specific aspects of the spending plan have drawn criticism from NUP members, though budget allocations for key government agencies and programs are typically contentious during annual appropriations debates.

The House is expected to continue deliberating on the budget in the coming weeks. How leadership addresses the concerns raised by majority lawmakers could influence the final shape of the spending measure.