Lacson says 2027 budget hearing with CSOs is ‘a big paradox’

MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Panfilo Lacson on Monday described the 2027 budget consultation with civil society organization (CSO) representatives as “a big paradox.”

“After hearing all the grievances and problems, you can’t help but ask, ‘Is there still hope for this country?” Lacson said.

“On the other hand, after hearing their passion and their respective advocacies, you also begin to think, ‘There is great hope for our country.’ That’s the other side of the coin,” he added.

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Lacson made the statement as the Senate finance committee met with CSOs to discuss budget priorities for the 2027 General Appropriations Act.

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READ: Senate told over P1 trillion in proposed 2027 budget is ‘pork’

Among the issues raised were P1 trillion worth of “red flags” or suspected “pork” and the need to revisit the allocations made by the House of Representatives, particularly for health and education.

Sen. JV Ejercito, who chairs the Senate finance committee, agreed with Lacson.

“Sometimes, with so many problems and the issues we have heard today, it becomes harder to love the Philippines,” he said.

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“But on the other hand, as Senator Lacson said, when we hear your passion and dedication, it makes us want to keep fighting,” he added.

READ: Lacson: Use ‘savings’ from Senate budget cuts for El Niño preparations

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According to Ejercito, the two-week plenary deliberations on the 2027 budget will begin on Nov. 21 and continue through the first week of December.

He also vowed at the close of Monday’s hearing to consider the proposed reforms once the Senate begins the bicameral conference committee hearings. /mcm