Manila: The Senate on Tuesday formally commenced the period of amendments for House Bill No. 4058, known as the proposed 2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA). This marks one of the final stages before the chamber finalizes its version of the national budget for the upcoming year.

According to Philippines News Agency, the decision followed a motion by Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri to open the period of committee amendments, which proceeded without objections. Senate President Vicente Sotto III subsequently declared the amendment period open during a plenary session.

Senate Finance Committee chairperson Sherwin Gatchalian presented Committee Report No. 18, detailing the panel’s proposed amendments to the PHP5.768-trillion spending plan. He highlighted that it has been 21 days since the Senate presented the budget, with senators dedicating 11 days and nearly 90 hours to plenary debates.

Gatchalian emphasized that the extensive discussions are crucial for identifying gaps, addressing weaknesses, and rectifying inconsistencies in a document that significantly impacts people’s lives. He expressed the responsibility of managing public funds, ensuring government accountability and transparency.

Committee Report No. 18 has been uploaded to the Senate’s Budget Transparency Portal, reflecting the chamber’s dedication to an open and accountable budget process. This initiative aims to restore public trust in Congress and the government. Gatchalian stated that all proposed individual amendments would be read aloud on the Senate floor for the body’s consideration.

The Senate plans to conclude the amendment period before sending its version of the 2026 national budget to the bicameral conference committee for harmonization with the House of Representatives’ version.