Manila, Oct. 22 -- The Office of the Ombudsman on Wednesday voiced its support for the decision to livestream the bicameral conference committee proceedings on the 2026 national budget.

"The Office of the Ombudsman (OMB) welcomes and fully supports the decision of the Bicameral Conference Committee to live-stream its proceedings. Transparency in legislative deliberations strengthens public trust and ensures that accountability remains at the heart of governance," Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano said in a statement.

He said the OMB encourages practices of openness and transparency, as they allow citizens to better understand and engage with the democratic process.

"By opening its doors to public view, the Bicameral Committee affirms th...