Senate eyes zero-sum approach for P6.79 trillion 2026 budget

The Senate is considering a "Zero-Sum" approach for the 2026 national budget, which involves reallocating funds within the proposed ₱6.793 trillion budget from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).

This method aims to minimize controversial insertions that were present in the 2025 budget by working strictly within the DBM's National Expenditure Program (NEP).

Government agencies will have the opportunity to present their programs and justify their funding needs during the budget process.

Senators will have the authority to realign funds between departments if deemed necessary.

Specifically, only flood control budgets under the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) are slated for realignment.

Senator JV Ejercito stressed the importance of lawmakers refraining from post-enactment interventions, such as influencing bidding processes or contractor selection, to ensure successful project implementation.