Chiz asserts budget power of Congress

Senate President Francis Escudero yesterday asserted Congress' constitutional authority over the national budget, saying the administration cannot always get its way and make a rubber stamp of Congress.

- By NEIL JAYSON SERVALLOS

In his State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, President Marcos warned that he would veto the 2026 budget if it would be deemed not fully aligned with the executive's priorities.

"While I agree that the administration has the prerogative to pursue its proposed budget, under the Constitution, the power of the purse still belongs to Congress," Escudero said in an interview with ANC's "Headstart."

Escudero said the Senate would not hesitate to introduce amendments to the budget based on consultations and input, adding that while the House of Representatives may choose otherwise, the Senate intends to exercise its oversight role independently.

"If the House is willing to do that and it seems to be afraid to do that, then that's their call. But on the part of the Senate, we will review the budget and we will propose amendments that need to be proposed," he said.

He also called on the executive branch to set an example by restraining its own agencies from lobbying lawmakers for additional funds during the budget season.

President Marcos told Congress during his SONA that he would not sign a budget "not aligned with the vision of the administration," a statement widely seen as a warning to lawmakers to keep amendments within limits.

Marcos made the remark after admitting that some of the country's flood control projects are substandard. He vowed to press charges against those involved in irregularities that worsened the effects of recent cyclones.

Asked if he felt alluded to amid reports tying him to corruption related to flood control projects, Escudero replied "no," claiming there are no members of the Senate who are government contractors or suppliers.