House Speaker Sets Five-Week Deadline For Transparent Scrutiny And Passage Of P5.768 Trillion National Budget
Photo credit: Congress PH
Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez has announced a rigorous five-week timeline for the House of Representatives to thoroughly review and approve the proposed P5.768 trillion national budget. Emphasizing the importance of transparency and inclusivity, Romualdez has pledged to uphold the voice of the minority during this crucial process.
During the Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) briefing, Romualdez reiterated the House's commitment to ensuring responsible allocation of every centavo within the proposed budget. He expressed confidence that the House would meet the deadline for passing the 2024 budget, highlighting the early submission of the proposal by the Department of Budget and Management, which arrived twenty days ahead of the constitutional deadline.
Romualdez's statement echoed a strong resolve: "Sisiguruhin natin na maipapasa natin ang 2024 general appropriations bill sa loob ng limang lingo lamang. Apat na linggo sa mga komite, at isang linggo sa plenaryo." He firmly asserted that the House would not adjourn until the legislation was successfully passed.
The Speaker called upon all House Members to actively participate in the budget deliberations and urged respect for varying viewpoints, particularly those of the minority. He underscored the importance of a consensus that serves the nation's best interests, especially the marginalized. Highlighting the House's power of the purse, Romualdez emphasized the responsibility of the House to meticulously assess the proposed budget, ensuring its alignment with the eight-point socioeconomic agenda and the Philippine development plan 2023-2028. He stressed that this process necessitates accuracy, objectivity, and transparency, urging comprehensive examination of departmental proposals and program details.
"With utmost diligence, we will ensure that every centavo of the proposed P5.768 trillion budget will be judiciously spent," Romualdez affirmed. He noted that it's the House's obligation to ensure citizens' taxes are appropriately utilized for the betterment of their lives, while maintaining a focus on fiscal prudence and effective resource allocation.
Throughout the deliberations, Romualdez promised that the House would remain cognizant of the Filipino people's trust and confidence, championing a brighter future for the nation through prudent financial management, transparent governance, and impactful resource utilization.
As the House of Representatives embarks on this vital budgetary process, Romualdez's firm commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility resonates as a cornerstone of the nation's progress.