The Senate says it plans to reduce its own proposed 2027 budget by around P2 billion, arguing that the chamber should demonstrate fiscal discipline ahead of the budget process. The proposal is linked to concerns about limited fiscal space and a desire for the House of Representatives to take a similar approach.
Rappler reports the Senate finance committee chair J.V. Ejercito frames the move as an example for other agencies, saying the Senate should lead by justifying spending like it expects from the rest of government. GMA News Online and Inquirer.net both emphasize Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson’s role, describing the intended P2 billion reduction as a signal to the House. Inquirer.net also notes the Senate’s starting point in the National Expenditure Program and the rationale tied to fiscal constraints.
Across outlets, the core message is consistent: the Senate wants to cut its 2027 allocation by about P2 billion and encourage parallel action by the House.