A firestorm has erupted within the Philippine House of Representatives following the Committee on Appropriations' decision to approve President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s P10.15 billion budget for 2027 in just 20 minutes. Utilizing a controversial tradition known as "parliamentary courtesy," the committee bypassed a full inquiry into the Office of the President’s (OP) spending plans, drawing sharp criticism from opposition lawmakers. Critics, led by the Makabayan bloc, argue that this lack of oversight undermines the very essence of transparency and accountability, especially given that the OP has requested a substantial P4.58 billion specifically for confidential and intelligence funds.

Lawmakers like Antonio Tinio and Sarah Elago have vocally challenged the practice, insisting that the executive branch should be held to the same rigorous standards as other government offices. They contend that the public deserves clear answers regarding the allocation of taxpayer funds, particularly amid ongoing concerns about potential budgetary anomalies. As the administration continues to push for this "courtesy," critics warn that such traditions essentially neuter the legislative branch's constitutional mandate to provide checks and balances, effectively shielding the presidency from the necessary scrutiny required in a functional democracy.