House to tackle budget 'red flags' instead of returning NEP to DBM

The House of Representatives is proceeding with deliberations on the P6.793 trillion 2026 national budget despite identifying "red flags."

The budget, also known as the National Expenditure Program (NEP), was initially considered for return to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) due to alleged flaws.

Deputy Speaker Ronnie Puno and other House members pointed out seemingly redundant allocations for flood control projects under the Department of Public Works and Highways, some of which may already be completed.

Puno also noted uniform amounts listed for multiple projects on a single page, raising concerns about the budget's construction.

Additionally, ongoing and priority programs appeared to have received no funding in the proposed budget.

However, after consulting Speaker Martin Romualdez, the House decided not to return the NEP to the DBM.

Instead, they will address the identified issues by pointing them out to the DPWH per district during budget briefings.