The Senate on Monday reiterated its commitment to transparency in the national budget process, expressing openness to proposals aimed at increasing public access to bicameral conference committee deliberations.
Senate Secretary Renato Bantug Jr. made this statement in response to renewed calls for greater accessibility to budget negotiations between the Senate and the House of Representatives. Bantug noted that the practice of inviting media to cover bicameral meetings on the General Appropriations Bill has long been institutionalized in the Senate.
“This consistent practice reflects our commitment to openness and accountability,” he stated. “The bicameral conference is a joint undertaking of the Senate and the House. Both chambers have a shared responsibility to ensure that the process is open and transparent, consistent with the constitutional precept that public office is a public trust.”
Bantug emphasized that the Senate is receptive to “serious proposals that will enhance public access and understanding of the crafting of the national budget.”
“We likewise welcome public scrutiny and involvement in the budget process. Our kababayan have every right to know how their money is spent, and their active participation helps ensure that their elected representatives remain responsive and accountable to the people who entrusted us with this responsibility,” he added.