Calls to integrate blockchain technology into the country’s budget process gained traction on Thursday, as lawmakers and local officials highlighted its potential to promote transparency, accountability, and citizen oversight in government spending.
The Senate Committee on Science and Technology, led by Senator Bam Aquino, tackled Senate Bill 1330 or the Philippine National Budget Blockchain Act. The proposed law envisions a blockchain-powered budget system that will log allocations, disbursements, procurements, and expenditures as digital public records accessible in real time.
Aquino said the measure seeks to address persistent concerns about irregularities in the national budget.
“To put our national budget on the blockchain answers many concerns and issues with our current system, kung saan may mga insertions at ghost projects. Makikita kung paano ginastos ang pera ng bayan,” the senator said.
Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, who previously launched a similar blockchain project at the local level, backed the proposal, stressing that the technology leaves no room for manipulation.
“Enough is enough. Every Filipino deserves systems that are not only efficient but also inherently trustworthy. Blockchain closes the gaps by creating tamper-proof and audit-ready records by design,” Magalong said.
Under the bill, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) will spearhead implementation, while the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and the Commission on Audit (COA) will ensure that the system is fully integrated into government reporting and audit frameworks.
The measure also provides for the establishment of a public portal where citizens, civil society groups, and oversight agencies can verify the movement of funds — from national allocations down to agencies, projects, and intended beneficiaries.