Senate President Tito Sotto said he will order the suspension of the bicameral conference committee meeting on the proposed 2026 national budget if it begins without a public livestream. Speaking in an ambush interview, Sotto assured that the livestream will push through despite earlier reports that some lawmakers opposed the measure.
Sotto said that from the first day of the bicameral discussions, all proceedings should be accessible to the public through a live broadcast. He stressed that transparency is essential as Congress reconciles the Senate and House versions of the budget.
The Senate leader noted that deliberations may be lengthy, depending on how quickly lawmakers can agree on the disagreeing provisions of the national budget. He said discussions traditionally expand when both sides seek clarification or push for adjustments, but he reiterated that these should remain within the scope of the provisions under debate.
Sotto also guaranteed that he will not allow the inclusion of matters unrelated to the disputed portions of the budget. He said only legitimate disagreements between the Senate and the House of Representatives will be tackled, rejecting any attempt to insert provisions outside the approved texts.
The assurance comes as transparency advocates and several legislators call for greater public access to budget negotiations. Sotto’s firm stance places additional pressure on Congress to maintain openness in one of its most crucial annual responsibilities.
The bicameral conference meeting will determine the final version of the 2026 national budget before it is submitted to the President for approval.
