Manila, Dec. 18 -- The Senate and the House of Representatives early Thursday concluded the bicameral conference committee deliberations on the proposed 2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA), capping six days of discussions aimed at producing a transparent and responsive national budget.

The bicam wrapped up its work at around 2:22 a.m., reconciling the disagreeing provisions of the PHP6.793-trillion General Appropriations Bill.

The Senate panel was led by Committee on Finance chairperson Sherwin Gatchalian, while the House contingent was headed by Committee on Appropriations chairperson Nueva Ecija 1st District Rep. Mikaela Angela Suansing.

Gatchalian said the bicam has completed its mandate and produced a budget responsive to public ...