The House committee responsible for budget allocation has concluded its hearings on the proposed national budget for 2024, which amounts to P5.768 trillion.
Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Elizaldy Co, the committee chair, announced this development on Wednesday, expressing his gratitude to fellow committee members for their thorough scrutiny and diligence in reviewing the budget proposal for the upcoming year.
Co highlighted that the budget discussions were characterized by transparency and rigorous examination to comprehensively cover all sectors and address the nation’s top priorities. Government agencies presented their budget proposals, and committee members, in turn, meticulously analyzed the figures, questioned the methodologies, and suggested potential amendments.
“We’ve made significant progress towards finalizing the 2024 budget, which is set to be a landmark budget focusing on national growth and the well-being of the Filipino people,” stated Co. He also commended his colleagues in the Appropriations Committee and dedicated congressmen who contributed valuable insights during the budget review.
Co stressed the importance of timely budget approval to avoid disruptions to government programs and services. He committed to achieving this by aiming to approve the budget on its final reading before the congressional break from September 30 to November 5.
“I am fully committed to expediting the passage of the 2024 General Appropriations Act. Ensuring an efficient and effective enactment of the budget is both our moral and civic duty to better serve our fellow Filipinos,” he affirmed.
Co explained that the next step in the budget process involves consolidating all recommendations and amendments before presenting it for plenary deliberation. He assured that his committee is putting in extra effort to advance the legislative process.
“While there is still work ahead, the conclusion of these budget hearings represents a crucial milestone in our journey towards a more prosperous and equitable Philippines,” Co concluded.
