MANILA – The bicameral conference committee is eyeing a potential January 2026 signing of the reconciled P6.793-trillion General Appropriations Bill (GAB) for 2026, as deliberations continue amid hopes to avoid a reenacted budget. House appropriations chair Rep. Mikaela Suansing expressed optimism on December 22, 2025, that the panel could finalize the measure before year-end, allowing ratification in special sessions and transmittal to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. by early January.
The timeline shift follows repeated delays in reconciling disagreeing provisions, particularly the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) allocation—scrutinized heavily due to the P20-billion flood control scandal. Suansing noted “significant progress” in recent sessions, with remaining items like social aid programs and infrastructure funds nearing consensus.
Senate finance chair Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian echoed the possibility of a January enactment, stressing transparency: “We’re committed to a clean, timely budget—no reenactment, but no rush that compromises scrutiny.” A reenacted 2025 budget would disrupt new programs, salary hikes, and projects.
President Marcos has vowed no reenactment, directing lawmakers to wrap up by December or early January. If ratified post-Christmas break (Congress adjourns December 20), special sessions could enable the “all-in-one-day” ratification/transmittal plan adjusted to early 2026.
As families celebrate the holidays, lawmakers burn midnight oil: A January signing keeps 2026 funds flowing—ensuring government continuity without the pitfalls of delay.
Possible Timeline Snapshot:
| Milestone | Target |
|---|---|
| Bicam Finalization | Before Dec 31 or early Jan |
| Ratification | Special sessions Jan 2026 |
| Presidential Signing | January 2026 |