The Philippine House of Representatives passes on second reading the proposed P7.2-trillion national budget for fiscal year 2027, aimed at funding government operations, salaries, infrastructure projects, and social services. Lawmakers approve the spending measure, identified as House Bill No. 10858, via voice vote, while the timing of the vote means the House is set to miss its self-imposed deadline for final passage due to a mandatory three-day cooling-off rule.
Alongside the approval, multiple outlets report that the House reallocates funding within the bill. A watchdog assessment says the House shuffled nearly P200 billion, including hikes to 123 budget line items worth about P198.9 billion, with increases directed largely to infrastructure and health-related programs. Another report says the House approves about P116 billion in specific amendments based on recommendations from a subcommittee of ranking lawmakers. Some lawmakers object to the process and raise concerns about transparency during the amendments vote.
