Photo credit: House of Representatives

The House Committee on Appropriations has endorsed a PHP 255.53-billion realignment in the proposed PHP 6.793-trillion 2026 national budget, directing fresh funding to multiple sectors including energy.

The amendments, prepared by the Budget Amendment and Review Subcommittee (BARSc), shifted funds originally earmarked for flood control projects of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the Philippine News Agency reports.

Among the allocations is a PHP 4-billion budget boost for Department of Energy (DOE) programs, which include the Sitio Electrification Program (SEP). The SEP has long been a key driver of rural electrification, targeting off-grid communities still without access to power.

Committee chair Nueva Ecija 1st District Rep. Mikaela Angela Suansing said the amendments aim to prioritize programs with broader impact.

“Our task ahead is to ensure that every peso appropriated in this PHP 6.79 trillion budget is invested where it matters most towards uplifting lives, protecting communities, and securing our nation’s economic future for generations to come,” Suansing said.

This month, DOE proposed a PHP 3.8-billion agency budget for 2026—a 24.44% increase from 2025—to support electrification and clean energy programs. This includes funding for total and rural electrification, renewable energy development, and alternative fuels research.  

Other energy-related allocations in the realignment include PHP 4.076 billion for solar-powered irrigation projects under the Department of Agriculture and PHP 34.089 million for climate programs under the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

The committee report, along with the proposed General Appropriations Bill, will next be taken up in plenary deliberations.

How do you see the PHP 4-billion realignment strengthening DOE’s push for 100% electrification and clean energy programs? Will this accelerate access and transition, or will challenges in implementation remain? Share your insights.

Follow Power Philippines on Facebook and LinkedIn or join our Viber community for more updates.