San juan city: The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has called on the public to actively engage in the 2026 budget deliberations as part of its efforts to promote transparency. DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman emphasized the importance of public participation, particularly from the youth, in understanding the budget-making process.

According to Philippines News Agency, Pangandaman has expressed support for making the bicameral budget deliberations accessible to the public. During the post-State of the Nation Address conference, she highlighted the executive branch’s commitment to a transparent budgeting process, from the initial crafting of the 2026 budget plan to its enactment as the General Appropriations Act.

Pangandaman announced that a copy of the 2026 National Expenditure Program (NEP), known as the President’s budget, will be made available on the DBM’s official website once it is transmitted to Congress. She noted that the budget is currently being printed and will be submitted to the House of Representatives and the Senate in the coming weeks.

To ensure the proposed 2026 budget meets the needs of the people, the DBM plans to conduct a series of consultations and deliberations with both legislative houses. Pangandaman assured that the DBM, in collaboration with other government agencies, will prioritize investments that address public needs and ensure the swift distribution of budgetary provisions.

Pangandaman reiterated the DBM’s commitment to transparency and accountability to the public throughout the budget process.