Congress expected to approve the P2.6-trillion 2015 National Budget

Given the commitment of the leaders of the House of Representatives and the Senate, Malacañang is “reasonably assured” that the 2015 National Budget would be passed on time and would be ready for the President's signature next month, Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said on Tuesday (Nov. 25).

Secretary Coloma, Jr. said “Based on our experience in the previous years and given the commitment of the leaders of both Houses, we are reasonably assured that the plenary deliberations will be concluded, so that both Houses are able to come up with their own versions that will later on be reconciled by a bicameral conference committee.”

The proposed General Appropriations Act will then be ratified by both Houses, and submitted for the President’s signature in December, Secretary Coloma said.

Legislators have voiced some reservations on the 2015 National Budget. Senator Miriam Santiago has questioned the legality of the budget, specifically the definition of savings, as well as the existence of the pork barrel.

In reaction, Coloma said the Executive branch recognizes the mandate of lawmakers to scrutinize the proposed budget.

The Palace official also fended off accusations that the 2015 budget would be used by the administration in preparing for the 2016 presidential election, saying the budget was crafted in line with the administration's Philippine Development Plan.

This development plan, he said, is anchored on economic growth and progress; social protection and poverty reduction; climate change mitigation and adaptation; security, peace and law and order; and good governance and anti-corruption. (PCOO News Release)