MANILA, Philippines — Senate President Win Gatchalian on Thursday firmly dismissed allegations that the proposed 2027 national budget is being dangled as leverage to influence senator-judges or as an incentive for House members tied to the impeachment case of Vice President Sara Duterte.
During an interview, Gatchalian rejected assertions that fund allocations are being utilized to sway votes regarding the trial.
“Walang ganun. Walang ganun na dinadangle sa senator or senator-judges,” Gatchalian said when asked if the budget was being used to pressure legislators.
The Senate leader guaranteed transparency throughout budget deliberations, noting that official records, hearing transcripts, committee reports, third-reading versions, and proposed amendments will be publicly accessible.
“The budget is open. Yung process natin, open yan. Makikita nyo lahat ng movements sa budget,” he stated, adding that the chamber will maintain its practice of publishing lawmakers’ submitted amendments.
Gatchalian cautioned that such claims risk undermining the credibility of the Senate as it functions as an impeachment court.
“Masisira talaga yung impeachment court kung ganoon na magiging allegation,” he warned.
He emphasized that the budgetary process operates independently of the impeachment proceedings and will not influence the ultimate verdict.
“Hindi in any way konektado yung budget sa magiging judgment ng impeachment. Ang direction ng impeachment is to render impartial and fair judgment,” Gatchalian explained.
According to the Senate President, the chamber formally received the spending bill on Monday, October 12, and has only just begun a detailed review despite prior preliminary studies.
The denial came in response to concerns raised by Vice President Duterte over alleged political maneuvering and fund distributions tied to the P7.2-trillion national budget for fiscal year 2027, questioning whether public resources are being weaponized to pressure senator-judges and reward pro-impeachment House representatives.
Duterte warned against utilizing accountability measures and public funds for political survival.
Meanwhile, Gatchalian stated he has no knowledge of discussions concerning House Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III potentially succeeding Duterte if convicted.
He added that lawmakers remain occupied with pressing public concerns, such as rising electricity and fuel prices, alongside an upcoming Senate hearing on El Niño.