Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has clarified that he has not yet signed the Bicameral Conference Committee (Bicam) report on the proposed 2025 national budget, citing the need for a detailed review of its provisions. This position aligns with that of Senator Bato dela Rosa, who also called for scrutiny of the report before affixing his signature.
Go emphasized the importance of thoroughly understanding the contents of the Bicam report, which was only presented to them earlier that morning.
"I am currently still reviewing the Bicam Report and, so far, I have found a few provisions that I have strong reservations on, particularly on the reported removal of the proposed budget for PhilHealth," the senator stated.
They assured that any findings will be addressed during the budget’s ratification in the Senate plenary.
As the vice chair of the Senate Committee on Finance and chair of the Senate Committee on Health, Senator Go underscored their commitment to ensuring that public funds are allocated responsibly.
"Bilang vice chair ng Senate Committee on Finance at chair ng Senate Committee on Health, nais ko munang siguraduhin na bawat piso ng bayan ay magagamit nang tama at ang mga programa para sa kalusugan ay sapat na mapopondohan,” he said.
The senator highlighted the urgency of addressing pressing issues such as poverty and hunger, stating that they will not allow vital health initiatives to be sidelined.
"Marami po ang naghihirap at marami ang nagugutom. Hindi tayo papayag na maisantabi lamang ang ating mga adhikain na ipinaglalaban para maproteksyunan ang kalusugan at buhay ng bawat Pilipino," he added.
This development signals a rigorous evaluation process in the Senate to ensure that the 2025 budget prioritizes essential services, particularly in healthcare, amid the challenging socio-economic landscape.