House passes the ₱7.2-trillion 2027 budget 281–13 with one abstention; critics call it “election-centered”
The House approved House Bill No. 10858 on third and final reading on Monday, 281 to 13 with one abstention (Philstar, Manila Times, GMA News). It is the House version of the General Appropriations Bill for 2027, at ₱7.2 trillion. Rep. Leila de Lima said it is not people-centered but election-centered, and BusinessWorld noted criticism of spending changes (Rappler, BusinessWorld). The House’s research office warned that a higher tax take is unlikely to widen fiscal space in 2027 (Inquirer).
The national budget decides what government spends on roads, schools, health and debt next year. Concerns about pork barrel, discretionary spending that critics say lawmakers can steer to favoured projects, matter after the flood-control corruption scandal.
Budget lines reach you through services and local projects. The Senate stage is where line items are most likely to change, so watch for changes to agencies you rely on.
Supporters say a large majority backed a plan that funds the government’s priorities.
Critics say the spending favours election-year politics and lacks safeguards.
The 281–13 margin is lopsided, so the real contest moves to the Senate and to the budget’s fine print. Ask what changed in the bill compared with what the executive proposed.
DailyDrop Philippines edition No. 9 · Morning · TUE., OCT. 13, 2026