MANILA, Philippines — Several senators have expressed support for proposals to open bicameral conference deliberations on the national budget to the public, saying the move would strengthen transparency and public trust in government spending.

Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada said he is not opposed to the initiative, noting that public participation in the budget process is essential as the General Appropriations Act is one of the most important laws affecting all Filipinos.

“It is only right that they are given the opportunity to understand, participate in, and monitor how public funds are allocated and spent,” Estrada said, adding that any proposal must still safeguard the integrity of the bicam process.

Estrada also recalled filing Senate Bill No. 2251 in May 2023, which seeks to institutionalize the publication of a simplified version of the “People’s Budget” to make it more accessible to the public.

Senator Panfilo Lacson likewise welcomed the development, saying he has long advocated for opening the bicam to the public or, at the very least, to accredited NGOs, civil society groups, and media.

“One of the 10 priority bills that I will file starting June 30 is a bill to ensure transparency in the bicam deliberations on the national budget,” said Lacson, expressing hope that the House will file a counterpart measure.

Senator Imee Marcos, for her part, renewed her push for transparency and inclusivity in the process, citing her experience last year when her request to be informed of bicam amendments before ratification was not heeded.

“I pray the 20th Congress will take it upon itself to scrutinize fairly the proposed 2026 budget and practice more transparency in its preparation,” Marcos said.