Senate to debate 2027 budget proposal in full plenary session

MANILA — The Senate has scheduled a full plenary session on November 23 to debate the government's proposed General Appropriations Bill (GAB) for 2027, according to an announcement from Senate Secretary Atty. Renato Bantug Jr.

The legislative agenda will proceed in two phases, with senators conducting sponsorship of the budget measure during morning deliberations. Interpellations from individual lawmakers are slated for the afternoon session, allowing for comprehensive questioning and discussion of the administration's spending priorities.

The GAB represents the government's comprehensive spending blueprint for the fiscal year, outlining appropriations across all government agencies and departments. The Senate's debate and eventual passage of the measure is a critical step in the budgeting process before it advances to final legislative action.

The November 23 session marks a key procedural milestone as Congress races to approve the national budget ahead of the end-of-year legislative calendar. Senate approval of the bill would clear the way for potential reconciliation with the House of Representatives version before submission to the President for signature.