MANILA – The Senate will hold sessions up to December 29, 2025, to ratify the reconciled 2026 General Appropriations Bill (GAB), Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero announced on Sunday, December 21, 2025. The extended schedule aims to finalize the P6.793-trillion budget and transmit it to Malacañang before year-end, averting a reenacted 2025 budget that would disrupt new programs and salary increases.
Escudero emphasized the urgency amid bicameral conference committee (bicam) delays: “We will work through the holidays if needed to deliver a timely, transparent budget for Filipinos.” The bicam has resolved most disagreements, with remaining items like Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) allocations and social aid programs nearing consensus.
The House, led by appropriations chair Rep. Mikaela Suansing, supports the timeline, planning special sessions post-Christmas break (Congress adjourns December 20). President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed no reenactment, pushing for ratification and signing by early January if needed.
This push follows scrutiny over DPWH cuts tied to the P20-billion flood control scandal, with senators insisting on safeguards against insertions. The livestreamed bicam— a transparency first—has accelerated public oversight.
For government employees and beneficiaries awaiting funds, this marathon effort ensures 2026 starts with fresh allocations—turning holiday hustle into hope for smoother services.
Extended Session Snapshot:
| Chamber | Session Until | Goal |
|---|---|---|
| Senate | Dec 29, 2025 | Ratify reconciled GAB |
| House | Special sessions post-Dec 20 | Align for bicam finalization |
| Transmittal Target | Dec 29-Jan early | Avoid reenactment |